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Hearing Information
The hearing process
A University hearing provides students with an opportunity to respond to alleged violations of the Code of Student Conduct, present relevant information, and have their case reviewed through a fair and impartial process.
The purpose of a hearing is to determine whether a student violated University policy and, if so, what sanctions are appropriate.
The University is responsible for establishing that a violation occurred using the preponderance of the evidence standard. This means the available evidence must establish that it is more likely than not that a violation occurred.
Students are encouraged to review Section 5.8 of the Code of Student Conduct for complete information about University hearings.
Types of University hearings
CMU has two types of hearings:
University Hearing Officer: A trained University faculty or staff member who reviews the information presented, determines whether a policy violation occurred, and assigns sanctions when appropriate.
University Hearing Board: A trained panel consisting of a University Hearing Officer and two student representatives who review the information presented, determine responsibility, and assign sanctions when appropriate.
The Conduct Proceedings Officer (CPO) generally determines which type of hearing will be used.
However, when a student faces possible suspension or expulsion, the student may choose between a University Hearing Officer and a University Hearing Board. The student must communicate their choice in writing to the CPO within two business days of their meeting. If no choice is submitted by the deadline, the CPO will determine the hearing type.
Preparing for your hearing
Before your hearing, you will receive information about the scheduled date, time, location, and hearing procedures at least 48 hours in advance.
To prepare, we encourage you to:
Review the allegations. Understand which University policies you are alleged to have violated.
Review the available information. You may request reasonable access to information that may be considered during the hearing, subject to applicable laws and University policies.
Prepare your perspective. Organize the information you would like to share and consider any questions you may have.
Identify relevant evidence and witnesses. Contact your CPO to discuss procedures for presenting evidence or arranging for witnesses to participate.
Consider bringing an advisor. You may have an advisor of your choice, including a friend, family member, faculty or staff member, or attorney.
Your advisor may provide guidance and support but cannot speak, answer questions, or present your case on your behalf. If your advisor is an attorney, you must notify your CPO at least two business days before the hearing.
Hearings may be conducted in person, virtually, or through a combination of both formats.
What to expect during a University hearing
Although the specific procedures may vary depending on the circumstances, University hearings generally follow these steps:
Opening Statements: The Hearing Officer introduces the participants, explains the hearing procedures, and reviews the alleged policy violations.
University Presentation: The CPO presents the University's information, including relevant evidence and testimony supporting the alleged violations.
Student Presentation: The student has an opportunity to respond to the allegations, share their perspective, and present relevant information or testimony.
Questions and Discussion: The Hearing Officer or Hearing Board may ask questions of the participants and witnesses. The student and the University also have opportunities to question relevant witnesses, subject to procedures established by the Hearing Officer.
Closing Statements: The University and the student have an opportunity to summarize their positions and highlight information they believe is important to the decision.
Deliberation and Decision: The Hearing Officer or Hearing Board reviews the information presented and determines whether a violation occurred. If a student is found responsible, appropriate sanctions are determined.
The Hearing Officer may ask additional questions, recall participants, or request additional information when necessary to reach a fair and informed decision.
What happens after the hearing?
The Hearing Officer or Hearing Board will issue a written decision to the Conduct Proceedings Officer within ten business days following the hearing.
The decision will identify whether a violation occurred, the information supporting that determination, and any assigned sanctions.
The Office of Student Conduct will email the decision to the student within three business days after receiving it from the Hearing Officer or Hearing Board.
Students have the right to appeal a hearing decision in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct. Appeals must generally be submitted in writing within five business days of the decision.
What if I do not attend my hearing?
Students are strongly encouraged to attend and participate in their scheduled hearings.
If you are unable to attend, contact your CPO as soon as possible.
If you fail to appear after receiving proper notice, the hearing may proceed without your participation. A decision may be made based on the available information.
Participating in your hearing gives you the opportunity to share your perspective, respond to the allegations, and ensure the Hearing Officer or Hearing Board considers the information you believe is relevant.
For questions about your hearing, contact the Office of Student Conduct at 989-774-1345 or StudentConduct@cmich.edu.