Any student participating in the student conduct process may have up two individuals of their choice provide support and advice throughout the process. This section assists support person(s) in understanding their role in our process.
Support Person FAQs
What is the official definition of a support person?
Per the Code of Student Conduct, a "support person" means an individual who may provide advice, support, or guidance to either the respondent or the complainant during the student conduct process. A support person may not represent, speak on behalf of, delay, disrupt, or otherwise interfere with the student conduct informal process. An attorney may serve as a support person; however, a support person may not be a witness, respondent, or complainant in the same case An attorney serving as a support person may participate directly in direct and cross-examination during the fact-finding portion of a formal hearing where responsibility for an alleged violation is being determined.
Can an attorney serve as a support person?
Absolutely, but it is not necessary. Per the Code of Student Conduct an "attorney" is an individual who, at the student or student organization’s own expense, may attend any phase of the conduct process. The attorney must be licensed to practice law in the state of Kentucky in order to participate as an attorney in the conduct process. (See also definition of “Support Person”)
For more information about the role of an attorney in the conduct process, please review the Code of Student Conduct or email us at studentconduct@uky.edu to learn more.
If a student retains an attorney, they need to notify the conduct officer at least a day in advance of an investigation or informal meeting. For a formal hearing, they need to notify the conduct officer in writing three days before the hearing.
Can another UK student serve as a support person?
As long as the student is not involved in the same incident (either as a witness, respondent or complainant), students can serve in a support person capacity.
As a UK student, the Code of Student Conduct (AR 4:10) applies to the role of support person..
How does having a support person affect a student's right to privacy?
The Office of Student Conduct adheres to a student's right to privacy as laid out in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. A support person can only participate in the process after the student has completed a FERPA form. Students can access the FERPA form through the communication from the Office.
How are meetings scheduled with students?
The conduct officer schedules any meetings according to the student's academic schedule. Therefore, students should find support persons whose schedule allows for them to attend the meeting at the scheduled date and time. Rescheduling and delaying meetings are not normally allowed because of a support person's scheduling conflicts.
How can I best support a student going through the process?
- Encourage the student to be honest, candid and forthcoming about their involvement--no decisions are made before the student has the opportunity to tell their side and be heard.
- This process is educational in nature. To that end, have the student reflect on their responsibility and accountability, if any.
- Ensure that they have completed a FERPA form.
- Make a plan about how to communicate during meetings (i.e. ask for privacy, talk in front of others, pen & paper/text).
- Work with the student throughout the process to remind them of their rights and their options.
Know the Code
Administrative Regulation 4:10 - Code of Student Conduct promotes the core values of the UK, including integrity, respect, responsibility and accountability, and sense of community. The Code outlines the rights for students and student organizations, the standards of conduct for all students and student organizations, and the procedures for determining violations.
Student Conduct Advisors
Advisors are students, faculty and staff trained in and available to help students in the conduct process.