Any student charged with a violation of the Code has the right to request that the Chair grant the use of a student confidant with which to discuss the case. The accused student may send a written request to the Chair with the proposed student confidant’s name, student leadership positions (if any), and, if possible, student ID number. The request should explain why the accused requires a confidant and the confidant’s relationship to the accused
and any other parties involved in the case.
Prior to sending the written request, the accused may acknowledge an investigation is ongoing in order to confirm the potential student confidant is willing to serve in that capacity. Sharing unnecessary detail, including all other names and facts pertaining to the case, prior to the student being appointed as an official confidant is not permitted and will be considered a breach of confidentiality.
The student confidant request will be evaluated for approval by the Lead Advocate and the Conduct Board Chair and, in cases involving a related Honor Council case, the Honor Council Chair. The Conduct Board Chair may deny or revoke the use of a Student Confidant if s/he presents the possibility of interfering with the case in any way. Typically, use of a student confidant is reserved for cases that may result in a major penalty, such as
suspension or dismissal.
If approved, the following applies to a Student Confidant:
1. The student confidant may discuss the case with the accused on a personal level.
2. The student confidant may not counsel the accused, question witnesses and case investigator(s), be present during the interview or hearing, or present arguments to the Conduct Board.
3. The student confidant may not have any involvement in the case. This includes any involvement in the incident of alleged code violation, any participation in a hearing (e.g. serving as a character witness, providing testimony or any kind) and any other involvement the Judicial Board Chair deems inappropriate.
4. The student and student confidant must meet with the Conduct Board Chair and Lead Advocate to discuss responsibilities and complete the oath of confidentiality.