Student Conduct

Frequenty Asked Questions About Grievances

 

Can I file a discrimination grievance while pursuing another grievance process (i.e. grade appeal, traffic appeal, etc.)?

How do I know if a discrimination grievance is appropriate in my case?

Can I file and appeal if I do not like the outcome of the discrimination grievance process?

How long do I have to file a grievance?

Can I have an advisor present during the hearing?

Can I withdraw my grievance after it is submitted?

Can the Discrimination Grievance Hearing proceed without me?

Can I file a discrimination grievance while pursuing another grievance process (i.e. grade appeal, traffic appeal, etc.)?

No, a student may only pursue one avenue of appeal in any given situation. If a grade appeal is filed, regardless of the outcome, the discrimination grievance procedure is no longer an option; likewise, if a discrimination grievance is filed, a grade appeal is no longer an option.

 

How do I know if a discrimination grievance is appropriate in my case?

Since students cannot use multiple grievance procedures for the same incident, it is very important you understand each process and make an informed decision on which procedure will be the most advantageous for you to pursue. During your meeting with Student Affairs you will be explained the potential pros and cons of each process. Ultimately the decision is yours and yours alone.

 

Can I file a discrimination grievance while pursuing another grievance process (i.e. grade appeal, traffic appeal, etc.)?

Yes. The Discrimination Grievance Committee will make a recommendation to the appropriate Administrative Officer, who will make a decision on the case. If you are in disagreement with this decision, you may appeal to the Chancellor. If you are in disagreement with the Chancellor's decision, you may appeal to the UM System President. The President's decision is final.

 

How long do I have to file a grievance?

A grievance must be filed within one-hundred-eighty (180) calendar days from the date of the alleged discriminatory act.

 

Can I have an advisor present during the hearing?

Yes, however, they will not be permitted to testify or cross examine. The role of the advisor is to personally advise you, but not to represent you during the hearing.

 

Can I withdraw my grievance after it is submitted?

At any point in the proceedings prior to the time that the committee reaches its final decision, you may withdraw any portion or all of the grievance with the consent of a majority of the committee members and the respondent. In cases of withdrawal at the consent of the committee and respondent, the grievant shall not have the privilege of reopening the same grievance at any time in the future.

 

Can the Discrimination Grievance Hearing proceed without me?

In the event that you refuse to participate in the committee hearing after filing the formal paperwork and receiving a hearing date, the committee may choose to continue the case or move to closure.