What is adjudication?
- Adjudication is specific form of conflict resolution process whereby decision making authority is turned over to a third-party.
- Informal adjudication is when the affected parties agree on a basic set of facts, and agree to have 3rd party to determine sanctions for an individual who violated University policy.
- Formal adjudication (i.e., in a hearing) is when 3rd party reviews disputed information and arguments from opposing parties, determines which arguments are more credible/likely, and recommends an outcome.
How is adjudication used?
- The Student Conduct System is the most commonly utilized adjudication system for students. Per Article 5 of the “AFR”, faculty, staff and student members of the University community may file complaints that a student has violated a regulation or policy. The student conduct system is an adjudicatory process designed to enforce University policy, while protecting student rights against infringement by members of the University community.
- Students may also request adjudication by filing a grievance against a registered student organization, student governing group, or University employee alleging a violation of the “AFR”, or a violation of the student group’s constitution, bylaws, or policies.
Why adjudication matters?
- Adjudication protects the rights of all University community members while seeking to maintain a delicate balance between maximum freedom and necessary order, which is fundamental to maintaining an effective learning environment.
- Adjudication actively engages the faculty, staff and students in matters and issues that are relevant to a learning community.
Who are our adjudicators?
Faculty, staff and students serve as adjudicators within the student conduct and student grievance system.
