2013-14 student handbook
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WILLIAM MITCHELL COLLEGE OF LAW Student Handbook
2013-2014
William Mitchell College of Law is registered as a private institution with the Minnesota Office of Higher Education pursuant to sections 136A.61 to 136A.71. Registration is not an endorsement of the institution. Credits earned at the institution may not transfer to all other institutions.
WILLIAM MITCHELL COLLEGE OF LAW Student Handbook 2013-2014
INTRODUCTION The Student Handbook is designed to help students understand the College’s policies and procedures. Suggestions for improving or updating the Handbook should be directed to the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life (Room 119; 651-290-8642). Many of the policies and procedures in the Handbook are published and crafted in accordance with the American Bar Association’s Standards and Rules of Procedure for Approval of Law Schools (see http://www.americanbar.org/groups/legal_education/resources/standards.html). Students who have concerns or complaints regarding a significant problem which directly implicates the law school’s program of legal education and/or its compliance with the Standards are encouraged to write to: Dean of Student Affairs & Student Life, William Mitchell College of Law, Suite 119, 875 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55105. The specific problem(s) and the manner in which compliance with the Standards is questioned should be clearly articulated. The Dean of Student Affairs will address the issue by convening a meeting of the administrator(s) and/or faculty members with principal responsibility for maintaining compliance with the standard in question. In the event that the administrator with principal responsibility for the standard is the Dean of Student Affairs & Student Life, the question will be referred to the President and Dean. Students who issue a complaint will receive a response from the institution within 45 days of receipt of the complaint. In the event it is determined that corrective action is required, all necessary steps will be taken as swiftly as possible and, unless the nature of the issue requires a longer timeline, in all cases the corrective action will be taken within one year. A record of complaints, including the resolution of each, will be maintained in the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs & Student Life. Policies and Procedures noted in the Student Handbook may be changed at any time during the academic year. Students will be notified of policy changes through The Docket. Students should routinely check The Docket to keep pace with important college information. Students are required to abide by all policies printed in the Student Handbook or announced in The Docket. Each student is provided a William Mitchell e-mail account. The account provided is the primary tool that William Mitchell uses to communicate with students. Students are responsible for the information sent to that account. Students who encounter any malfunction with that account should contact the Information Technology department for assistance at [email protected]. Complaints and grievances about other aspects of the college may be directed to the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. The Dean will attempt to address any complaint or grievance, or will direct the student to the appropriate college official. All requests for accommodations due to disability, or English as a second language, should be directed to the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. ACADEMIC AFFAIRS 1. ACADEMIC CALENDAR: 2013-2014 2. REGISTRATION, WITHDRAWAL, AND RECORDS
2.1 Registration for First-Year Students 2.2 Registration for Upper-Class Students 2.3 Registration Credit Restrictions 2.4 Restriction on Number of Work Hours for Full-Time Students 2.5 Registration Requirement – Prerequisites and Co-Requisites 2.6 Course Cancellations 2.7 Auditing a Course 2.8 Adding a Course 2.9 Withdrawal and Drop from a Course 2.10 Withdrawal from the College 2.11 Leave of Absence 2.12 Change of Name or Address 2.13 Student Records 2.14 Updates and Amendments to Student Records
3. ACADEMIC STANDING
3.1 Good Academic Standing 3.2 Probation 3.3 Academic Dismissal 3.4 Rules for Appeal of Academic Dismissal
4. ACADEMIC RULES AND PROCEDURES
4.1 Attendance 4.2 Classroom Study Requirement 4.3 Perspectives on the Legal Profession (PLP) Requirement 4.4 First Class Assignments 4.5 Class Cancellations by Instructor 4.6 Class Make-Up Policy 4.7 Extending Course Work Completion Deadlines 4.8 Course Evaluations 4.9 Minimum and Maximum Time Frame for Course Work 4.10 Credits Earned at Other Law Schools 4.11 Other Courses of Study Not Permissible
5. EXAMS
5.1 Types of Exams and Use of Computers on Exams
5.2 Exam Numbers 5.3 Exam Conflict and Reschedule Policy 5.4 Deferring Completion of Exams 5.5 Extending Course Work Completion Deadlines 5.6 Exams Retained for One Year
6. GRADES, CLASS RANK, HONORS, AND AWARDS
6.1 Letter Grading System 6.2 Pass/Fail Grades 6.3 Notice of Grading Criteria 6.4 Grading Policy 6.5 Grade Changes 6.6 Grade Posting 6.7 Class Rank 6.8 Transcripts 6.9 Failed Courses 6.10 Honors and Awards
7. ADDITIONAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
7.1 Academic Support Programs 7.2 Semester or Year Long Independent Study Abroad Program
8. CURRICULUM AND GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
8.1 Course Requirements 8.2 Perspectives on the Legal Profession Requirement 8.3 Skills Course Requirement 8.4 Statutory Course Requirement 8.5 Advanced Research & Writing Requirement 8.6 Academic Requirements for Graduation 8.7 Administrative Requirements for Graduation 8.8 Diplomas
9. ROSALIE WAHL LEGAL PRACTICE CENTER
9.1 Writing & Representation Courses 9.2 Legal Practicum 9.3 Clinics and Externships 9.4 Student Certification by the Minnesota Supreme Court 9.5 Other Elective Skills Courses 9.6 Legal Assistance to Minnesota Prisoners (LAMP) 9.7 Minnesota Justice Foundation (MJF)
10. BAR EXAM INFORMATION
10.1 Minnesota State Bar Examination Subjects and Comparable William Mitchell
Subjects 10.2 Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam 10.3 Bar Exam Certification
B. STUDENT AFFAIRS
11. STUDENT CONDUCT CODE
11.1 General Expectations and Community Standards 11.2 General Provisions 11.3 Student Organizations and Group Responsibility 11.4 Prohibited Conduct 11.5 Sanctions 11.6 Rules of Procedure 11.7 Initiation of Disciplinary Proceeding
12. PLAGIARISM
12.1 General Information 12.2 Frequently Asked Questions about Plagiarism
13. NON-DISCRIMINATION AND NON-HARASSMENT POLICY – Deleted; See “3. Sexual Harassment, Harassment and Discrimination, and Sexual Violence Policy” in Appendix for comprehensive policy 14. POLICY AGAINST SEXUAL HARASSMENT – Deleted; See “3. Sexual Harassment, Harassment and Discrimination, and Sexual Violence Policy in Appendix for comprehensive policy” 15. PROBLEMATIC CONSENSUAL ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIP POLICY
15.1 Introduction and Scope 15.2 Definitions 15.3 Policy Statement 15.4 Disciplinary or Corrective Action 15.5 Voluntary Disclosure
16. SEXUAL VIOLENCE – Deleted; See “3. Sexual Harassment, Harassment and Discrimination, and Sexual Violence Policy in Appendix for comprehensive policy” 17. WHISTLEBLOWER
17.1 Introduction 17.2 Definitions 17.3 Reporting Procedure 17.4 Complaints of Retaliation 17.5 Investigation of Report 17.6 Questions
C. STUDENT FINANCE
18. TUITION AND FEES 18.1 Tuition Costs 18.2 Fees 18.3 Donations and Memberships 18.4 Time of Payment and Finance Charges 18.5 Full Payment Plan 18.6 Installment Payment Plan 18.7 Employer/Outside Agency Tuition Reimbursement 18.8 Student Refund Checks 18.9 Finance Department 18.10 Withdrawal from a Course – Add/Drop Effecting Tuition 18.11 Withdrawal from the College – Tuition Refunds 18.12 Return of Title IV Funds 18.13 Policy on Tuition for Students Returning from Active Duty in the Military
19. FINANCIAL AID
19.1 Financial Aid Office 19.2 Cost-of-Attendance 19.3 Federal Work Study (FWS) Program 19.4 Scholarships and Awards 19.5 Student Loans 19.6 Enrollment Verification 19.7 Deferment of Existing Student Loan Payments 19.8 Academic Eligibility for Financial Aid
D. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY USE and EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
20. INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
20.1 Policy Statement 20.2 Security 20.3 Usage 20.4 Acceptable Uses/Limitations 20.5 Prohibited Conduct 20.6 Violations 20.7 Questions
21. FACILITIES, POLICIES, AND PROCEDURES
21.1 Accidents and Injuries on Campus 21.2 Alcohol 21.3 Tobacco-Free Environment 21.4 Emergency Procedures for Fires 21.5 Emergency Procedures for Storms
21.6 Escort Service and Security 21.7 Identification Cards 21.8 Lockers 21.9 Lost & Found 21.10 Parking Policy 21.11 Poster and Distribution Policy 21.12 Room Reservations 21.13 Weapons Policy 21.14 Student Solicitation Policy 21.15 Food at Student Organization Sponsored Events 21.18 Whistleblower 21.19 Sexual Violence
E. COLLEGE OFFICES AND SERVICES
22. COLLEGE OFFICES & SERVICES
22.1 Administration 22.2 Bookstore 22.3 Career & Professional Development 22.4 Childcare Center 22.5 Copying, Faxing, Mail 22.6 Counseling Services 22.7 Services for Students with Disabilities 22.8 The Docket: News for Students 22.9 Institutional Advancement 22.10 Media Services 22.11 Office of Multicultural Affairs 22.12 Student Services 22.13 Switchboard 22.14 Warren E. Burger Library
F. GENERAL INFORMATION ITEMS
23. STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION 24. DRUG and ALCOHOL FREE CAMPUS POLICY
24.1 Introduction 24.2 Resources 24.3 Policy Statement 24.4 Possible Health Risks of Drug Use/Abuse 24.5 Penalties 24.6 For Your Information 24.7 Attribution
G. APPENDIX
1. Whistleblower Report Form 2. Academic Support Initiative Overview 3. Sexual Harassment, Harassment and Discrimination, and Sexual Violence Policy
A. ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
1. ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2012-2013
Summer 2013
Saturday, May 25, 2013 - Monday, May 27, 2013
Memorial Day Weekend (College closed)
Tuesday, May 28, 2013 Seven-Week Summer Session classes begin
Thursday, July 04, 2013 Independence Day Holiday (College closed)
Friday, July 5, 2013 Independence Day Holiday (No classes - College open)
Friday, July 12, 2013 Summer exam reschedule requests due in Room 119 at 5:00 PM . See section 5.3
Monday, July 15, 2013 Make-up Day for Memorial Day (Monday classes)
Tuesday, July 16, 2013 Make-up Day for Independence Day Holiday (Thursday classes)
Wednesday, July 17, 2013 Make-up Day for day after Independence Day Holiday (Friday classes). Last day of seven-week summer session courses
Thursday, July 18, 2013 - Friday, July 19, 2013
Reading Days
Monday, July 22, 2013 - Friday, July 26, 2013
Summer Exams
Fall 2013
Monday, August 19, 2013 - Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Orientation for first-year students
Thursday, August 22, 2013 Fall Semester classes begin
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Add Deadline: Last day to Add a class via web registration
Drop Deadline-last day to drop a course without a notation of “W” (withdraw) on transcript. See section 2.8 and 2.9
Monday, September 2, 2013
Labor Day (College closed)
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Add Deadline: Last day to add a class-requires faculty approval. See section 2.8
Thursday, October 17, 2013 - Friday, October 18, 2013
Fall Break - no classes Thursday or Friday(College open)
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Withdraw Deadline: Last Day to Withdraw from a class -see section 2.9.2
Thursday, November 28, 2013 - Saturday, November 30, 2013
Thanksgiving Break (no classes)
Monday, December 2, 2013
Make-up Day for Labor Day (Monday classes)
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Make-up Day for Thanksgiving (Thursday classes)
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Make-up Day for day after Thanksgiving (Friday classes)
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Last day of Fall Semester classes
Thursday, December 5, 2013 - Friday, December 6, 2013
Reading/Class Make-up Days
Saturday, December 7, 2013 - Friday, December 20, 2013
Fall Semester Exams
Tuesday, December 24, 2013 - Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Winter Break (College closed)
Spring 2014
Monday, January 6, 2014 - Saturday, January 11, 2014
J-Term
Monday, January 13, 2014 Spring Semester classes begin
Saturday, January 18, 2014 Winter Commencement
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Add Deadline: Last day to Add a class via web registration
Drop Deadline-last day to drop a course without a notation of “W” (withdraw) on transcript. See section 2.8 and 2.9
Monday, January 20, 2014 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (College closed)
Saturday, January 25, 2014 Add Deadline: Last day to Add a class-requires faculty approval; see section 2.8
Monday, March 3, 2014 - Saturday, March 8, 2014
Spring Break – No classes
Monday, April 14, 2014 Withdraw Deadline: Last Day to Withdraw from a class -see section 2.9.2
Monday, April 28, 2014 Make-up Day for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Monday classes)
Last day of Spring Semester classes
Tuesday, April 29, 2014 - Thursday, May 1, 2014
Reading/Class Makeup Day
Friday, May 2, 2014 - Friday, May 16, 2014
Spring Semester Exams
Sunday, May 18, 2014 Spring Commencement
Summer 2014
Saturday, May 24, 2014 - Monday, May 26, 2014
Memorial Day Weekend (College closed)
Tuesday, May 27, 2014 Seven-Week Summer Session classes begin
Friday, July 4, 2014 Independence Day Holiday (No classes - College open)
Monday, July 14, 2014 Make-up Day for Memorial Day (Monday classes)
Tuesday, July 15, 2014 Make-up Day for Independence Day Holiday (Friday classes)
Last day of seven-week summer session courses
Wednesday, July 16, 2014 - Thursday, July 17, 2014
Reading Days
Friday, July 18, 2014 – Thursday, July 24, 2014
Summer Exams
2. REGISTRATION, WITHDRAWAL, AND RECORDS
2.1 Registration for First-Year Students The college assigns first-year students to sections and registers them for courses. First year students may not register for courses other than required first year courses. This includes, but is not limited to independent research and J-term courses.
2.2 Registration for Upper-Class Students Upper-class students obtain registration materials on the web. Registration for fall and summer semesters is in April. Registration for spring semester and J-term is in November. Upper-class students may register for courses through the first full week of classes via their Student Records Login, unless indicated otherwise on the online schedule.
2.3 Registration Credit Restrictions
Fall and Spring Semesters: o Maximum: 15 credits. o Minimum: 8 credits except in final semester. The Dean of Student Affairs and Student
Life may grant students a one-time exception to the 8-credit minimum for extraordinary circumstances.
Summer: students may register for no more than 8 credits scheduled at any one time, and a total of no more than 15 credits. For example, if a student enrolls in 8 credits during the 7-week Summer session, he or she may enroll in up to 7 additional credits as long as the additional credits are entirely outside the 7-week session. Examples include courses such as Advanced Advocacy (offered in the week between the end of Spring and beginning of the 7-week session) or skills courses offered in a condensed format immediately after the 7-week term concludes.
2.4 Restriction on Number of Work Hours for Full-time Students
A student enrolled in 12 or more credits in the fall or spring semester or 6 or more credits in the summer may not work more than 20 hours per week. Students are required to sign a statement verifying that they will not work more than 20 hours per week when they are enrolled at these levels.
2.5 Registration Requirement - Prerequisites and Co-Requisites Registration for some courses requires a student to complete one or more prerequisites or to take a course concurrently. A student must abide by these requirements unless the instructor waives the requirement. Before registering for any course, the student must obtain a waiver from the instructor and inform the Registrar, who will then assist in the registration process. Any student who elects to take a course without the required prerequisite and/or co-requisite course(s) does so at their own risk. Lack of prerequisite and/or co-requisite course(s) will not be considered as a factor in administering any William Mitchell College of Law policies.
2.6 Course Cancellations The college reserves the right to cancel a course on or before the first day of classes due to insufficient enrollment or other compelling circumstances. Students enrolled in the canceled course are notified of the cancellation by e-mail.
2.7 Auditing a Course A student who audits a course receives no credit or grade for the course. Students may not audit skills courses or clinics. Course requirements for auditors are set by the instructor. All financial and academic regulations that apply to a credit course also apply to an audited course. A student who audits pays the same tuition as one taking the course for credit except in the following instances: (1) if the audit credits plus the graded credits put the student in the full-time tuition bracket (12 credits or more), the student is charged $500 per-credit for those audit credits that exceed 11 credits; and (2) if the audit credits plus the graded credits put the student in the part-time bracket (8-11 credits), the student is charged $500 per credit for those audit credits that exceed 7 credits.
2.8 Adding a Course A student may add a course via the web during web registration. After web registration closes, a student may add an open course but must do so by the deadline published in the Academic Calendar (see Chapter 1). To add a course after web registration closes, a student must complete an add/drop form and obtain written approval (initialed form or e-mail approval) from the instructor. Instructors do not have the authority to admit students into a closed class. Instructors have the right to impose a more stringent limitation for adding a course than this section provides. If adding the course puts the student in a higher tuition bracket, the student pays the tuition for that bracket. Students may not register in any courses where the class meeting times overlap, regardless of the total time involved.
2.9 Withdrawal and Drop from a Course 2.9.1 Withdrawal from a Course for First-Year Students Any first-year student wishing to withdraw from a required course must speak with the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. Mid-year section switches are granted only in unusual circumstances. 2.9.2 Upper-Class Drop and Withdrawal Deadline An upper-class student may drop a course via the web through the deadline published in the Academic Calendar (see Chapter 1) unless an instructor imposes a more stringent requirement. No record of the course appears on the student’s transcript. A student who wishes to withdraw from a course after the drop deadline must obtain the written approval (e-mail or an initialed add/drop form) from the faculty member. With approval, a student may withdraw from a course through the withdraw deadline published in the Academic Calendar (see Chapter 1). If a student withdraws after the drop deadline but before the withdraw deadline a record of the withdrawal (W – withdrawal in good standing) appears on the student’s transcript. If a student withdraws after the withdraw deadline a record of the withdrawal (WA – Administrative Withdrawal – withdrawal not in good standing) appears on the student’s transcript. For effect on tuition, please see Tuition and Fees.
2.10 Withdrawal from the College To withdraw from the college, a student must receive approval from the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that his/her withdrawal request has been approved. The last date for which tuition is charged is the date when the student initially contacts the
Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. Students who withdraw from the college must petition the Admissions Committee for readmission if they wish to return. If, at the time of withdrawal, a student’s tuition payments exceed the amount of tuition liability, the Finance Department uses the overpaid amount to reduce any student aid awarded before returning any funds to the student. For refund schedule, please see Tuition and Fees.
2.11 Leave of Absence The Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life may grant a student a leave of absence due to personal circumstances for up to one year. A student must petition the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life in writing for a leave of absence. The time that a student is on leave will be calculated as part of the six years allowed to earn a J.D. Students on leave from the College are not considered enrolled for financial aid purposes, and their student loans may enter repayment during a leave of absence. Students concerned about the effect of a leave of absence on their student loans should contact the Financial Aid Office.
2.12 Change of Name or Address Students should notify both the Registrar’s Office and the Financial Aid Office of changes of name, address, or home or work telephone numbers. A copy of original documentation is necessary for name changes. Students may submit all other changes by logging into their student account and submitting the form located in “Demographics”.
2.13 Student Records Students attending William Mitchell have the right to review their educational records, which consist of official records and files maintained by college offices. Students’ rights with respect to these records are governed by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Staff members in the Registrar’s Offices necessarily view confidential information pursuant to their work responsibilities. Student staff members sign a Confidentiality Agreement when they are hired, agreeing that they will not release, reveal, or discuss the information. Violation of the agreement subjects a student to dismissal from the position and discipline under the William Mitchell Student Conduct Code. 2.13.1 Student Record Policy: FERPA: Right to Review Records Students attending William Mitchell have the right to review their educational records, which consist of official records and files maintained by college offices. Personal files maintained by instructor or staff are excluded from coverage under this policy. Files maintained by the Security Department are confidential, except for incident reports, which may be viewed by the student involved in the incident and noted in crime statistics that must be published annually. Personal files are records that are kept in the sole possession of the maker, are used only as a personal memory aid, and are not accessible or revealed to any other person except a temporary substitute for the maker of the record. Procedure for Requesting Review of Student Records:
1. A student’s request to review their records should be made to the administrator in charge of the office in which the records are on file, or to their designee. The college office may require the request to be in writing.
2. The request is granted within a reasonable time, not to exceed 45 days after the request is made.
3. The student inspects and reviews the records in the presence of the administrator in charge, or their designee.
a. During the process of inspection and review, records can neither be changed nor deleted.
b. The student shall be advised of their right to challenge any portion(s) of the school record and of the procedures to challenge the record.
c. Upon written request, the student shall be provided with a copy of any portion(s) of their school record, with the exception of copies of transcripts and other official documents provided by other educational institutions to the college.
2.13.2 Hearing to Challenge Contents of Records In accordance with federal law, students shall have an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the contents of their school records to ensure that the records are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of students, and to provide an opportunity for the correction or deletion of any inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise inappropriate data contained therein. Procedure for Challenging Content of Student Records:
1. A student may request, in writing, an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the contents of their school record.
a. A request should be made to the Dean or the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. b. A request must:
i. Identify in specific terms the portion(s) of the record challenged; ii. State the reason(s) for challenging the portion(s) of the record so identified;
iii. State the remedy sought (i.e., the addition, alteration, or deletion of specific information under challenge).
c. The written challenge shall be maintained as part of the record or file in question until the hearing has been concluded.
2. Hearing Procedures a. The hearing is conducted by the Dean or his or her designee. b. The hearing is granted within 15 working days after the request is received. c. Prior to the hearing, the hearing officer shall notify the student and the college official
representing the record of the time, place, and date of the hearing and of the specific portion(s) of the student’s school record to be challenged in the hearing.
d. The college official responsible for the student record under challenge, or their designee, shall represent that record in the hearing.
e. The hearing shall be limited to a consideration of the specific portion(s) of the student’s school record being challenged.
f. The student has the right to be assisted by an advisor of their choice. g. The burden of sustaining the challenge rests with the student. h. The student and the college official have the right to present evidence and witnesses
directly related to the portion(s) of the student’s record being challenged. i. The hearing officer shall keep a taped record of the hearing. j. The hearing officer must provide the student with a written notification of the
disposition of the challenge including the reason(s) for the disposition.
3. Findings a. The record may stand.
b. The record may be corrected. c. The record may be deleted.
2.13.3 Policy Regarding Access to Student Records Students attending William Mitchell have the right to know who has access to their records and the reason for that access. Accordingly, college offices with students’ education records must maintain a record listing the names of all parties, other than college officials with a legitimate educational interest, who requested or obtained access to and/or copies of student records. This record must be shown to students requesting such information. 2.13.4 Policy Regarding Release of Information Federal law prohibits, in most circumstances, disclosure of personally identifiable information from the student record except by written consent of the student. Federal law permits the disclosure of directory information about students without prior consent. “Directory information” includes name, address, e-mail address, telephone number, participation in recognized activities, dates of attendance, degree and awards received, most recent previously attended school, year in law school, and part-time or full-time status. Under ordinary circumstances, lists of students are not provided to individuals and/or organizations. The college and Student Bar Association reserve the right to publish a student directory listing the names and addresses of students.
2.14 Updates and Amendments to Student Records Updates to student records apply to incidents that occur after initial application to the college. Amendments are events that a student should have reported initially but failed to report. Students who enroll at William Mitchell are required to disclose violations of the law until graduation from William Mitchell. There are two exceptions: (1) parking violations do not need to be reported; and (2) moving violations that do not involve drugs or alcohol do not need to be reported. Please read the following carefully. Also note that violations of law may be within the jurisdiction of the Student Conduct Code (See Section 11).
2.14.1 Updates A student is required to update his or her application if, after applying to William Mitchell College of Law and during his or her legal education, an incident occurs that would have had to have been reported under one of the conduct questions on the Application for Admission. Applications for Admission for Fall 2013 and for several years prior read, in part:
The information requested in [the] questions [relating to criminal conduct and conduct while a member of an educational institution] is required to be disclosed to bar examiners when seeking admission to the bar. Matriculating students have a continuing duty to disclose this information until graduation from William Mitchell.
In addition to the requirement of disclosing an incident that has occurred after enrollment has commenced, the College highly recommends discussing the incident(s) with a staff member from the Office of the Dean of student Affairs & Student Life (Room 119). Doing so allows the College to provide counseling and advice on resources and steps to consider taking. Some infractions or patterns of infractions may have an effect on bar admission. The College is well situated to advise students in these
cases. We encourage visiting with us about all infractions, and highly recommend you visit with us when an infraction(s):
Involves alcohol or drugs;
Represents a pattern of conduct;
Involves dishonesty; or
Involves any incident that may call into question the ability of the student to meet the essential eligibility and character and fitness requirements required for licensure in most jurisdictions. As an example, see Rule 5 of the Minnesota Rules for Admission to the Bar at http://www.ble.state.mn.us/rules/
Students who need to disclose incidents covered by the above must complete the following on-line form and include the details of the update (including relevant dates, disposition, etc.). http://web.wmitchell.edu/students/online-student-update-form/ 2.14.2 Amendments An amendment is a disclosure that should have been made when initially applying for admission. A student who determines that an amendment to his or her application is required must complete the on-line form below. Amendments must include the details of the incident(s) that were not initially disclosed, relevant dates, disposition, and the reason(s) for not disclosing the information initially. http://web.wmitchell.edu/students/online-student-amendment-form/ In the case of both Amendments and Updates the burden is on the student to ensure that the amendment or update has been received and responded to by the College.
3. ACADEMIC STANDING
This section of the Student Handbook complies with the standard that requires all ABA accredited law schools to have and adhere to clearly defined standards for good standing and graduation.
3.1 Good Academic Standing To be in good academic standing, a student must have a cumulative grade point average (G.P.A.) of 2.0 or better. Cumulative G.P.A. is determined at the end of a student’s first full academic year (two semesters and completion of 17 or more credits at William Mitchell College of Law), and at the end of each Fall and Spring semester thereafter. A student must be in good standing to continue (unless the student is eligible for probation) and must be in good standing to graduate. Students receiving financial aid should see Academic Eligibility for Financial Aid for additional requirements for continuing financial aid eligibility.
3.2 Probation A student whose cumulative G.P.A. is less than 2.0 will be placed on probation unless the student is dismissed under the rules listed in section 3.3 below. All students on academic probation should consult the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life about the advisability of a reduced credit load. Students must achieve a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.0 within two semesters following their placement on probation or they are dismissed under the rules set forth at section 3.3. Students who are on probation at the end of their first year must take Legal Reasoning Workshop II: Powers Intensive during the following Fall semester.
3.3 Academic Dismissal 1. A J.D. student is dismissed with no right of appeal to the Academic Affairs Committee if the
student has a cumulative G.P.A. below 1.66. 2. A J.D. student is dismissed with the right of an appeal to the Academic Affairs Committee when
the student: a. has a cumulative G.P.A. below 1.8, but equal to or greater than 1.66; OR b. fails to bring their cumulative G.P.A. to at least 2.0 within two semesters after being
placed on probation; OR c. receives failing grades in five or more courses; OR d. has been on probation, achieves good standing, and then earns a cumulative G.P.A.
below 2.0; OR e. has earned 86 credits or more and has a cumulative G.P.A. below 2.0; OR f. has failed to complete all J.D. requirements within 6 years of the first day of enrollment.
3. A previously dismissed student may seek re-admission when two or more years have elapsed since the dismissal and the nature of the interim work, studies, activities, or other experiences indicates a stronger potential for the study of law.
3.4 Rules for Appeal of Academic Dismissal
3.4.1 Generally 1. These rules govern the procedures used when a student appeals to the Academic Affairs
Committee from the Dean’s (“Dean” means the Dean of the college or the Dean’s designee, in most cases, the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life) application of the academic rules of the college resulting in that student’s dismissal from the college.
2. Any notice, document, material, or decision which must be given to the student under these rules may be given to the student personally or sent by first-class mail to the student’s address as then on file with the college.
3.4.2 Authority of Academic Affairs Committee
1. The committee shall hear all appeals from the Dean’s application of the academic rules of the college referenced at 2 (a-f) under the heading Academic Dismissal.
2. The committee may affirm, reverse, or modify the Dean’s application of the academic rules resulting in a student’s dismissal from the college.
3. The committee shall not take any action contrary to the Standards and Rules for Law Schools of the American Bar Association or the standards of the Association of American Law Schools.
4. There shall be no appeal from a decision of the committee, but a student may seek reconsideration under the conditions stated in section 3.4.6.
5. The Academic Affairs Committee has no jurisdiction to change a student’s grade. 3.4.3 Notice of Dismissal
1. The Dean shall give written notice of dismissal to the student and provide a copy of the notice to the Chairperson of the committee.
2. With the notice, the Dean shall provide the student with a copy of these rules. 3.4.4 Appeal
1. To Whom: A student who has been dismissed from the college as a result of the Dean’s application of the academic rules of the college, and has a cumulative grade point average of 1.66 or higher, may appeal to the Academic Affairs Committee.
2. Composition of Committee: For the purposes of an appeal, the committee shall consist of five faculty members of the Academic Affairs Committee and two student members of the Academic Affairs Committee. No Dean may sit as a member of the Academic Affairs Committee for an appeal, but the Dean of Students may be present during all committee meetings and deliberations on a student’s appeal.
3. Quorum; Votes Needed to Take Action: Where these rules provide for action by the committee, unless otherwise noted, an affirmative vote of two-thirds (rounded to the next highest whole number) of the members of the committee present and voting is required to take the action. Five persons including one student shall be a quorum. The Chairperson may vote.
4. Self-Recusal: Any member of the Academic Affairs Committee who chooses not to participate may be excused from sitting on a particular appeal. When necessary, the Chairperson shall appoint a replacement for a faculty member and the President of the Student Bar Association shall appoint a replacement for a student member.
5. Initiating the Appeal: a. The student shall submit a written statement addressing the factors stated in section
3.4.4(7) explaining why the committee should reverse or modify the dismissal. The student also may submit supporting documents.
b. The student shall file the appeal materials with the Chairperson of the Academic Affairs Committee and provide a copy of the appeal materials to the Dean of Students.
c. The Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life shall provide a written assessment of the merits of the student’s appeal. The assessment shall respond to the points raised in the appeal materials. The Dean shall provide the assessment to the Chairperson of the Academic Affairs Committee and, as stated in, section 3.4.4(h)(iii) shall make one copy available to the student.
6. Student’s Meeting with the Committee; the Committee’s Deliberations: a. After receiving a student’s timely appeal, the Chairperson shall schedule a meeting for
the student with the committee. b. The meeting shall be conducted informally. At the beginning of the meeting, the student
shall have the opportunity to make remarks. The student may invite to the meeting other people to provide information to the committee. Members of the committee may ask questions and make comments at any time. The Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life also may ask questions and make comments. The student shall not be present while the committee deliberates or votes on the appeal. Before leaving the meeting, the student shall have the opportunity to make brief closing remarks.
c. The committee considers information from the following sources, among others: i. the student’s petition and supporting documentation (if any);
ii. the student’s statements at the meeting; iii. the student’s academic file; iv. the assessment letter provided by the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life; v. knowledge that members of the committee possess concerning the student;
vi. any comments from people who are aware of the student’s situation. d. The student may have access to their academic file in the Office of the Dean of Student
Affairs and Student Life prior to the day of the committee meeting but not on the meeting day itself. To arrange access to the file, the student must give the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life at least two working days notice and must arrange an appointment to take place during that office’s normal business hours. While reviewing the file, the student may obtain copies of any documents in the file subject to whatever procedures and fees the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life has in effect.
7. Factors Considered by the Committee; Burden of Proof; Committee Action Necessary to Reverse or Modify Dismissal:
a. To reverse or modify the dismissal, a student must prove by clear and convincing evidence:
i. the occurrence of an extraordinary event or set of circumstances that was the direct cause of their academic failure; and
ii. that in the event the appeal is granted, it is probable that within no more than the ensuing two semesters the student’s cumulative G.P.A. will be 2.0 or higher and remain so until graduation.
b. The dismissal stands unless the committee acts to reverse or modify the dismissal. 8. Time:
a. The student must appeal within 13 days after the mailing of the notice of the dismissal or, if the notice is delivered personally to the student, 10 days from receipt.
b. Failure to file an appeal within the prescribed time period will preclude any appeal and the dismissal shall stand.
c. Within 10 days after the date upon which the student files the appeal, the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life shall provide their assessment to the Chairperson of the committee and shall make a copy available to the student for pick-up in the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life during normal business hours. The student is responsible for determining when the copy is available and for arranging to pick up the copy.
d. Unless the student waives the right to meet with the committee, the committee shall meet with the student within 30 days after the student files the appeal but no sooner
than on the fourth working day after the assessment from the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life becomes available to the student. In any event, the committee shall decide the appeal within 35 days after the filing of the appeal.
e. The Chairperson of the committee may extend any time period in these rules for good cause, except that committee action is required to extend the following by more than 30 days:
i. the deadline for filing a student’s appeal; and ii. the deadline for requesting reconsideration under section 3.4.6.
9. Confidentiality: a. By filing an appeal, the student authorizes the Dean to provide the student’s College file
to the committee. b. All documents submitted by or on behalf of the student to the committee shall become
part of the student’s academic file and shall be subject to the same rules of confidentiality applicable to all student academic files.
c. All proceedings of the committee which take place while the student is present shall be confidential as to third parties and shall not be disclosed to others unless:
i. the student consents to disclosure; or ii. disclosure is necessary to defend the college or any member of the college
community from charges of wrongful conduct. d. All deliberations and other proceedings of the committee which take place while the
student is not present shall be confidential both as to third parties and as to the student and shall not be disclosed to others or to the student except:
i. in strict accordance with section 3.4.5 below; and ii. where disclosure is necessary to defend the college or any member of the
college community from charges of wrongful conduct. e. The Dean of Students and individual members of the committee may give the student
advice as to how the student might improve their academic performance, so long as that advice does not disclose any information about the committee’s deliberations or other proceedings which occurred while the student was not present.
3.4.5 Notice of Committee’s Decision
1. Within 3 working days of deciding the student’s appeal, the committee shall give the student written notice of the committee’s decision and shall provide a copy of the notice to the Dean.
2. The notice shall state only the committee’s decision and shall not provide any supporting reasons or disclose the committee’s vote.
3.4.6 Request for Reconsideration
1. A student dissatisfied with the committee’s decision on their appeal may submit a written request, addressing the grounds stated in section 3.4.6(c), that the committee reconsiders its decision.
2. The request for reconsideration must be delivered to the Chairperson of the committee within 90 days of the date the committee gives notice of the committee’s decision to the student.
3. There are only two grounds for obtaining reconsideration: a. that the student has material information:
i. which relates to the student’s situation as of the date of the meeting at which the committee decided the student’s appeal;
ii. which is newly discovered or newly available since the meeting at which the committee made its decision; and
iii. which with reasonable diligence could not have been found and produced at that meeting.
b. that the committee’s deliberations or decision were substantially influenced by extraneous prejudicial information improperly brought to the committee’s attention.
4. The petition for reconsideration must state with particularity, and on oath, the information that the student asserts justifies reconsideration.
5. Within 5 working days of receiving a request for reconsideration, the Chairperson delivers a copy of the request to each member of the committee. Within 10 working days of receiving the request, the Chairperson polls each member of the committee to see whether any member wishes to have a committee meeting to consider whether to grant the request for reconsideration.
6. If at least 3 members of the committee wish to have a committee meeting to consider whether to grant the reconsideration request, the Chairperson schedules a meeting to take place within 20 working days of the day the Chairperson received the request for reconsideration. Otherwise, the Chairperson promptly informs the student in writing that, under this section 3.4.6(f), the request for reconsideration is denied.
7. If the committee does meet to decide whether to reconsider the dismissal: a. the student is not present, unless the committee requests or requires the student to
attend; b. the committee considers only whether the student has satisfied the Standard of section
3.4.6(3); c. the committee decides only whether to grant reconsideration; d. the committee does not reconsider the dismissal.
8. If, after holding a meeting under section 3.4.6(8), the committee does not grant reconsideration, the chairperson promptly informs the student in writing that, after meeting, the committee did not grant reconsideration.
9. If the committee grants reconsideration, a. the student has an appeal de novo; b. the provisions of section 3.4.4 apply to the reconsideration process; except c. subject to section 3.4.4 (8) on extensions of time, the following deadlines will apply:
i. for the student to provide the Chairperson with any additional information the student wishes the committee to consider: 13 days after the mailing of the notice of the committee’s decision to reconsider, or if the notice is delivered personally to the student, 10 days from receipt; a student who does not intend to submit additional material must also inform the Chairperson within these time limits.
ii. for the letter of assessment from the Dean of Students: 10 days from student’s filing of additional material or notice that no further materials will be submitted.
iii. for the committee to meet to consider the de novo appeal: within 30 days after the committee provides notice to the student that the committee has granted reconsideration, but no sooner than on the fourth working day after the Dean of Students’ assessment becomes available to the student;
iv. for the committee to decide the de novo appeal: within 35 days after the committee provides notice to the student that the committee granted reconsideration.
10. If the committee declines to reconsider a dismissal or if, after reconsidering a dismissal the committee makes a decision that dissatisfies the student, no further appeal or reconsideration is allowed.
4. ACADEMIC RULES and PROCEDURES
4.1 Attendance Regular and punctual class attendance is required to satisfy American Bar Association residency and class hour requirements and is important for a student’s education. Students who attend class irregularly cannot satisfactorily carry out course work in the college. A student is subject to a grade of “F”, administrative withdrawal from a course, or dismissal from the college if attendance is so irregular (four or more absences) that the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life and instructor(s) deem it unwise for the student to continue in the course or in the college. Instructors may impose more restrictive attendance requirements for their courses. Students must wait for a late instructor until 15 minutes past the scheduled beginning of a class before determining that the class will not be conducted and, in that instance, an absence is not recorded. Students may check for weather-related closings by calling the William Mitchell information line at (651) 227-9171. The College reserves one or two days after the completion of classes each semester as reading or weather make-up days. If the college cancels classes because of bad weather, classes are rescheduled on these days. If you sign up for the College’s emergency notification system, E2 Campus, you will receive a text message if the College closes or classes are cancelled.
4.2 Classroom Study Requirement In order to comply with the American Bar Association requirements, William Mitchell students can take no more than 22 credit hours of non-classroom instruction. Non-classroom instruction includes competitions and independent research projects and the fieldwork component of clinics and externships – all settings where the credits are earned in a setting other than the classroom or professor’s office.
4.3 Perspectives on the Legal Profession (PLP) Requirement This section applies to students who commenced law school in Fall 2012 or earlier. For information about requirements for students who commenced law school in 2013, see http://web.wmitchell.edu/students/perspectives-on-the-legal-profession-plp/. The legal system in the United States is a complex, sophisticated culture created to serve a diverse citizenry. It is the challenge and duty of each law school to prepare its students to function successfully in the U.S. legal system, and to serve society with dignity and integrity. The Perspectives on the Legal Profession Program (PLP) is designed for this purpose. In order to graduate, students must complete the various PLP components, listed below, which address the most important aspects of the U. S. legal system.
1. Careers in the Law 2. Financial Literacy 3. Judicial Proceeding 4. Student Organization Perspectives 5. Global Justice in a Diverse Society (GJDS) 6. Stress Management and Healthy Lifestyle
Throughout the year, programs and lectures that satisfy each of these PLP component requirements are announced in the Docket. Students may obtain the certification form for PLP on the Mitchell website. This form should be completed and submitted by the conclusion of the third semester of law school. Students who do not complete the PLP Program requirements by the end of their third semester will not be permitted to register for the fifth semester of law school until all requirements are fulfilled. In extenuating circumstances, a student may petition the Associate Dean for Academics for permission to fulfill a PLP program requirement by writing a research paper, approximately 15 pages in length, on a topic related to the component that has not been completed. The topic must be pre-approved by the Associate Dean for Academics.
4.4 First Class Assignments Most instructors assign course work for the first day of classes. First assignments submitted by instructors are posted on Blackboard and the Student Web site.
4.5 Class Cancellations by Instructor An instructor who must cancel a class shall notify the Switchboard Operator at the earliest possible time. The Associate Dean’s Office shall monitor class cancellations for each instructor. Notices of class cancellations are posted on the classroom doors, and on the video message screens on campus.
4.6 Class Make-Up Policy Instructors may schedule make-up classes in advance of a canceled class. Instructors announce the time and date to make up canceled classes as soon as possible after the cancellation. An instructor notifies the Switchboard Operator of the scheduled make-up class so that changes can be posted there. Instructors do not schedule makeup class(es) during the last two weeks of a semester unless it is impossible to make up the canceled class(es) at any other time. Instructors may arrange for videotapes or audiotapes of make-up classes which are placed on reserve in the library for a reasonable period of time following the make-up class.
4.7 Extending Course Work Completion Deadlines A student may not extend any due date without prior permission from the instructor and the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. The instructor determines the new due date, but the new due date may not be deferred later than the Extension Deadlines indicated on the “Request for Extension and entry of temporary grade of Incomplete” form. The student is notified of the extension if approved by the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. If a student fails, without prior permission, to complete the required course work by the Extension Deadline the student is subject to failure in the course, withdrawal, or administrative withdrawal (withdrawal not in good standing).
4.8 Course Evaluations Each semester, all students complete an evaluation for each course they take. The completed evaluation forms are reviewed by the Associate Dean for Academics and the ratings on the forms are tabulated. The evaluations are returned to the instructor after grades for each course are submitted. The evaluations provide useful feedback to the instructor. The evaluations also are available to the Tenure Committee—it is the responsibility of this committee to assist beginning instructors to become better teachers and to evaluate the quality of instructor teaching. Committee members also visit classes to obtain more direct information. The evaluations are used in the same manner by the administration in making decisions on course assignments, salary, promotion, and tenure of tenure-track instructors, and retention of adjunct instructors.
4.9 Minimum and Maximum Time Frame for Course Work There is a minimum of two years and a limit of five years to complete all academic requirements for the J.D. degree. In cases of exigent circumstances, a student may request a two-year extension to the five-year limit to earn the J.D. degree. The request must be submitted, in advance of the five-year limit, in writing, and directed to the college President. The request must detail the circumstances necessitating the extension and a plan for completion of all degree requirements.
4.10 Credits Earned at Other Law Schools The Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life must approve credits earned at other law schools before the credit can be transferred to a student’s William Mitchell record. All regulations that apply to credits earned at William Mitchell also apply to transfer credits. No credit is given for course work taken prior to a student’s first matriculation in any law school. Two types of credits earned at other law schools are regulated by this section: (1) credits earned while visiting another law school and (2) transfer credits earned prior to enrolling at William Mitchell.
1. Regulations applying to all forms of Credit Earned at Other Law Schools
a. ABA Approval. Credits must be earned at an ABA-approved law school or an ABA-approved program sponsored by an ABA-approved law school. In some instances, course credit also is given for legal study in other countries in accordance with ABA guidelines. See § 7.2.
b. Minimum credits at the College. J.D. students must earn a minimum of 24 credits at William Mitchell in order to receive a J.D. degree from William Mitchell College of Law.
c. Computation of credits. In most cases, the college accepts the number of credits as assigned by the school where the course was taken. Credits for courses taken at law schools on a quarter system are computed as follows: 1 quarter credit = 0.7 semester credit.
2. Regulations applying to Credits Earned while visiting another law school
a. Advance Permission Required. The Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life must grant permission for a student to visit away and pre-approve proposed courses prior to the student enrolling at the law school the student wishes to visit. Students who wish to receive credit for courses taken while visiting another law school must complete a “Transfer of Credit” form. A student does not receive credit for a course that substantially duplicates work in a course previously taken at William Mitchell.
b. Grades. All grades earned by William Mitchell students who visit other law schools are noted on the transcript under a separate heading, but are not computed as part of the William Mitchell grade point average or class rank. All courses taken must be letter graded unless the course description states that the course is only offered on a pass/fail basis. Credit is granted only when a grade of at least C (not C-) or its equivalent is earned. In the event a student earns a failing grade the grade is counted against the number of failing grades permitted at William Mitchell.
c. Required Courses. All required classes (see section 8) must be taken at William Mitchell College of Law.
d. Limits on Visiting Away. The following limits apply to students visiting other law schools: i. Maximum Credits and Terms
1. Fall or Spring: Maximum of one term; maximum of 12 credits. In rare circumstances the Dean of Student Affairs & Student Life may approve two semesters at one of the CILE (Consortium for Innovative Legal Education) institutions (see www.cile.edu).
2. Summer: Maximum of 3 credits. The 3 credit maximum may be exceeded for CILE study abroad programs (see www.cile.edu). In no other case shall a student earn more than 3 credits (cumulative) from another school during Summer semesters.
3. J-Term: Maximum of 1 credit. No course may be taken at another school when the dates of the J-term class overlap with the any portion of William Mitchell’s Spring semester.
4. Cumulative Maximum: The cumulative maximum number of credits earned while visiting other law schools that may be applied to the William Mitchell J.D. is 12.
5. Students who transferred to William Mitchell College of Law and students who were granted advanced standing are not allowed to visit another law school.
ii. Visiting Local Law Schools: visiting at local law schools (visiting at local law schools may occur in the Summer or J-Term; contact the Registrar for information about accessing courses at local law schools during the Fall or Spring under the local law school consortium program) is allowed in very rare circumstances. Students must submit a written request (e-mail preferred) to the Dean of Student Affairs & Student Life articulating the reason for the request.
e. Timing of Visit Away. The college discourages visiting away in the final semester of law school. When a student visits another law school William Mitchell has no control over when that school posts its grades and releases transcripts. No credit is awarded until an official transcript is received from the law school the student visited. The College will not certify a student for purposes of bar admission until official transcripts are received and the Office of the Registrar has verified that all degree requirements have been met.
3. Regulations applying to Credits Earned at another law school and transferred to William Mitchell
a. Grades. Transfer students must have received a grade of at least C (not C-) or its equivalent to receive credit for a course taken at the previous law school. All grades from another law school are noted on the transcript under a separate heading, but are not computed as part of the William Mitchell grade point average or class rank. A failing grade received at another law school is counted against the number of failing grades permitted at William Mitchell.
b. All remaining credits must be taken at William Mitchell. Students admitted as transfer students must complete all remaining credits at William Mitchell. In rare circumstances the Dean of Student Affairs & Student Life may grant an exception. Students must
request an exception in writing and must articulate the circumstances that support approval.
4.11 Other Courses of Study Not Permissible Other courses of study (dual degree programs approved by WMCL and other graduate or undergraduate programs) may be pursued by a student while enrolled at William Mitchell College of Law with approval of the Associate Dean for Academics.
5. EXAMS
5.1 Types of Exams and Use of Computers on Exams Professors have the discretion to administer in-class exams, take-home exams, papers or courtroom exercises. Exams may be closed or open book. No exam is open book unless the instructor of the course specifically designates the exams as such. Students complying with the College’s policies regarding advance registration and software installation may use computers to type their exam answers. 5.1.1 Advance registration and software installation requirements Advance registration is required for students wanting to use college-owned computers to type exams. While the college will make its best effort to ensure that resources are available, advance registration does not guarantee the student the use of college resources. Use of college computers is on a first request received, first request served basis. Students are required to submit a Typing Examination Request Form to Student Services (Room 119) by the appropriate deadline in effect for the semester (approximately two weeks prior to the first day of exams). Requests received after the deadline will be honored on an “as available” basis. If a computer is not available at a student’s scheduled exam time the request will be denied. Notification regarding the request will be sent to students via e-mail (to the assigned William Mitchell College of Law e-mail account). If the request is approved, the student will receive details for the exam day. Exams must be taken at the date and time originally scheduled. Exam times will not be rescheduled based solely on the request to type. The Typing Examination Request Form is only required if a student seeks to use a college-owned computer to type an in-class exam. Students using their own laptop do not need to turn in a request. However, students using their own computer for closed book exams are required to have the college’s exam software installed on their personal computer. 5.1.2 Use of Computer Based Testing Software for Taking Exams on a Personal Laptop Computer The college uses SofTest software by ExamSoft for exam taking, which provides backup protection from losing work (in the event of computer malfunction) and prevents cheating. Not every instructor uses SofTest for every exam, but if a particular exam requires it, SofTest must be installed and tested, and the exam downloaded, for a student to take an exam on their personal laptop computer. To use SofTest, the following conditions must be met: 1. SofTest software must be installed and tested on your computer prior to taking your first exam. You must become familiar with using it, including transferring your exam electronically. If you are scheduled to take an exam that requires SofTest, you will be notified by email prior to your first exam. This email will provide links for downloading the software and instructions on how to install and use it.
2. If your computer suddenly becomes unusable prior to the beginning of an exam, you may choose to take the exam on one of the workstations in the library’s computer lab (which will have SofTest already installed), or hand write the exam in a blue book.
3. If a computer suddenly becomes unusable during an exam already in progress, you must use a blue book to finish the exam from the point where the computer stopped working. Information Technology personnel will retrieve the work that was completed in SofTest prior to the crash.
4. SofTest is compatible for Microsoft Windows and Macintosh OS. More information about supported Windows and Mac versions will be provided in the instructions you will receive prior to exams. Information Technology Services professionals are available in the Library (or by phone at 651-290-6451)
to assist with installing, using, and troubleshooting problems with SofTest. They will also be available
during every scheduled SofTest, and will be notified of make-up exams by Student Services.
5.2 Exam Numbers Students are assigned examination numbers that are used as identification on exams throughout law school. Students may ask the Registrar to change their exam number at any time. Upon showing proper identification, students who forget their examination number can obtain it from the Registrar’s Office until one-half hour after the exam begins. If a student uses the wrong number on an exam, they should notify the Registrar in order to assure proper recording of grades.
5.3 Exam Conflict and Reschedule Policy Students take all exams, whether in-class or take-home, at the time and place announced either on the exam schedule or, in the case of take-home exams, by the instructor. No student may take any exam before the regularly scheduled time for that exam. In-class exams may be rescheduled by the Assistant Director of Student Affairs and Student Life for the following reasons:
1. A student is prevented from taking the in-class exam(s) because of their illness or an illness or death in the student’s immediate family;
2. A student has three in-class exams scheduled within a period of 3 calendar days, in which case a student may reschedule one exam;
3. A student has two in-class exams scheduled to begin within 23 hours of each other; ex: 6 p.m. exam on a Monday followed by 5 p.m. exam the next day would be a conflict 6 p.m. exam on a Monday followed by 6 p.m. exam the next day would not be a conflict
4. A student has an in-class exam scheduled on a day and time that conflicts with his or her religious beliefs;
5. A student has a documented disability or speaks English as a second language, in which case the student may receive an extension of time on in-class exams and other accommodations, as needed, at the discretion and approval of the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life.
Take-home exams may be rescheduled by the Assistant Director of Student Affairs and Student Life when directed to do so by the instructor giving the exam. The instructor has discretion to determine the details for rescheduled take-home exams unless the instructor has delegated that authority to the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. Deadlines must be adhered to when requesting that an exam be rescheduled. See the Academic Calendar in this Handbook for deadlines (Section 1). Exam rescheduling is coordinated in Student Services, Room 119. Ordinarily, employment obligations are not a valid reason for rescheduling an exam, but the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life may consider them.
Specific make-up dates for exam conflicts are scheduled at set times during the examination period. Students must take rescheduled examinations on the next available make-up date that does not cause a new conflict in the student’s exam schedule. No make-up exam or accommodation for extra time is given more than one week after the end of the regular exam period except when such a delay is necessitated by illness. The rules on Deferring Completion of Exams apply when a student fails to take an exam when it is scheduled.
5.4 Deferring Completion of Exams A student may not defer an in-class exam without prior permission from the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. The Dean determines the deferred exam date. If a student fails, without prior permission, to take an in-class or take-home exam when scheduled or rescheduled by the instructor and/or the Dean, the student is subject to failure in the course or administrative withdrawal (withdrawal not in good standing) for failure to fulfill the academic requirements of the course.
5.5 Extending Course Work Completion Deadlines A student may not extend the due date of written work required in lieu of an examination without prior permission from the instructor and the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. The instructor determines the due date for such written work required in lieu of an examination. A student must submit a “Request for Extension of Grade Due Date” form. The student is notified of the extension if approved by the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. Work may not be deferred later than the ninth week from the start of the fall, spring, or summer session following the original due date. This extension deadline applies to independent research projects and independent clinics as well as to classes. If a student fails, without prior permission, to complete the required course work when scheduled or rescheduled by the instructor and the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life, the student is subject to failure in the course or administrative withdrawal (withdrawal not in good standing) for failure to fulfill the academic requirements of the course.
5.6 Exams Retained for One Year Most exam booklets, take-home exams, and student papers are retained by the Registrar, or the instructor, for one year. Some exam booklets, take-home exams, and students’ papers are available for students to pick up in the Registrar’s Office. Otherwise, students should see the faculty support staff for the specific instructor.
6. GRADES, CLASS RANK, HONORS and AWARDS
6.1 Letter Grading System The college grades on a letter grading system as follows:
A 4.00 Excellence in the course
A- 3.67 Above average competence for William Mitchell law students
B+ 3.33
B 3.00 Average competence for William Mitchell law students.
B- 2.67
C+ 2.33
C 2.00 Acceptable competence for William Mitchell law students
C- 1.67 Less than acceptable competence in the course.
D+ 1.33
D 1.00 Not a failing grade, but less than the minimum necessary (2.0 GPA) to stay in school
D- .67
F 0.00 Failure to demonstrate minimum competence for satisfactory completion of the course
I 0.00
Grades preceded by an “(R)” are not included in GPA or earned credits.
6.2 Pass/Fail Grades Courses are ordinarily graded on an A-F scale. With the permission of the Associate Dean for Academics, an instructor may offer a course on a Pass/Fail basis. If an instructor is offering a course on a Pass/Fail basis, they must announce this orally or in writing to their students prior to or at the beginning of the semester. A student receiving a pass earns a grade of S (satisfactory) or a grade of P (pass), which is not computed in their cumulative G.P.A. A student receiving a fail earns a grade of “F”, which is computed in his or her cumulative G.P.A. There is no limit to the number of Pass/Fail credits a student may earn. Individual students may not elect to receive a Pass/Fail grade in a course that is letter graded.
6.3 Notice of Grading Criteria The syllabus for each course will list grading criteria for the course. If it does not, students should request the criteria from the faculty member.
6.4 Grading Policy Beginning in the summer term in 2011, William Mitchell College of Law mandates standard grading practices for all required courses regardless of enrollment and for elective courses with 20 or more grades submitted to the registrar. To promote grading consistency, the Associate Dean for Academics or the Registrar reviews all grades prior to posting and, if necessary, the Associate Dean discusses substantial grade disparities with the appropriate instructor. All courses subject to this policy must have an average grade of 3.00, plus or minus the allowed deviation, as listed in Table 1 below.
Table 1. Allowable Deviation of the Average Grade for Required Courses
Class size
Suggested Mean Grade
Maximum Allowed
Deviation
80+ 3.00 +/- 0.13
70-79 3.00 +/- 0.14
60-69 3.00 +/- 0.15
50-59 3.00 +/- 0.16
40-49 3.00 +/- 0.18
30-39 3.00 +/-0.20
<30 3.00 +/-0.24
In Summer 2011, a temporary exception was made for Advocacy, Advanced Advocacy, Legal Practicum, Business Practicum and the London Program. These exceptions applied in Summer 2011 only.
6.5 Grade Changes Once grades are posted, no grade can be changed other than upon discovery of a mathematical or recording error. No administrator or instructor may undertake to review or re-evaluate an instructor’s exam for the purpose of changing the grade. This policy is subject to the rules adopted under the Policy Against Discrimination, the Policy Against Sexual Harassment, and the Problematic Consensual Romantic Relationships Policy. The Associate Dean for Academics must approve all grade changes. Students who have questions about a grade should review the exam with the instructor who taught the course. No grades are changed once a student graduates from the college.
6.6 Grade Posting Students can review their grades on the Web using their student I.D. number and password. When new grades are being entered, students cannot access their grades. During regular grade posting periods, grades are available for review on the Web from Friday 5:30 p.m. to Monday 10 a.m. (See posting schedule on the Web for exact days/times.) For grade security purposes, grades are not given over the telephone. There are no exceptions to this policy. Grades of students owing money to the College are not posted or released until the amount owed is paid in full. A message in the student’s record on the Web indicates that a hold has been placed on the student’s record. The hold is released when all outstanding tuition and/or fees are paid.
6.7 Class Rank Class rankings are computed at the end of a student’s first academic year and every Fall and Spring Semester thereafter. Grades earned during Summer Sessions are factored in with the Fall Semester grades. J-term grades are factored in with the Spring Semester grades. The ranks are based on students’ cumulative grade point averages. Only those students who received all of their semester grades receive a class rank. Our goal is that non-senior ranks are calculated one week after the last non-senior grades are processed. Senior ranks are calculated when all senior grades are processed. Students are ranked with other students who are proceeding through law school at approximately the same pace, except for the final ranking, in which students are ranked with their graduating class.
Students who graduate in August are ranked with the subsequent January graduation class. A student’s class rank is not changed once ranks are computed. For grade security, students are not given their class ranks over the telephone. Students may request an official transcript without the rank listed by contacting the Registrar.
6.8 Transcripts Students may obtain official transcripts by completing a transcript request form, or by sending or faxing a written request with the student’s signature to the Registrar’s Office. If a request is received by 3 p.m., it is available in the Registrar’s Office the following business day. Students may print their unofficial transcript from the college’s Web site. Under no circumstances can the college release photocopies of students’ transcripts from other academic institutions. Students must request those documents directly from the academic institutions they attended.
6.9 Failed Courses Students do not receive credit for courses in which they receive a failing grade (a grade of F). A student must repeat all required courses in which they earn an “F”. Students also must pass courses used to fulfill the statutory or skills requirement. A student may choose to repeat any other failed courses. Both the “F” and the repeat grade are computed as part of the student’s grade point average. A student may not repeat courses in which they did not receive a failing grade. Students who receive five or more failing grades are subject to dismissal from the College.
6.10 Honors and Awards 6.10.1 Honors The college issues the following academic distinctions upon the completion of all coursework and the awarding of the degree:
Summa Cum Laude 3.60 G.P.A. or higher
Magna Cum Laude 3.40 G.P.A. to 3.59 G.P.A.
Cum Laude 3.20 G.P.A. to 3.39 G.P.A.
For purposes of the graduation ceremony only (both January and May), honors will be based on the students’ cumulative grade point average from the prior semester. The college instituted a new grade curve in 2011-12. The above academic distinctions will be reviewed in 2013-14 in light of this change. Updates to the above, should they be required, will be published by the end of Fall 2013. 6.10.2 Dean’s List Students who earn a semester grade point average of 3.50 or better, based on 8 or more graded credits, are placed on the Dean’s List that semester. Students so honored receive a letter from the President and Dean of the College and a notation on their transcripts. First year students are not eligible for the Dean’s List until completion of the spring semester.
6.10.3 CALI Awards Faculty members may designate the Computer-Assisted Legal Instruction (CALI) Award of Excellence to students who receive the top grade in a course. Students so honored receive a letter from the Dean and a certificate from CALI.
7. ADDITIONAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
7.1 Academic Support Programs William Mitchell is committed to helping students achieve their full academic potential. In addition to the Writing & Representation (WRAP) tutors, there are a number of resources available to students who seek academic support. The courses listed below are managed by the College’s Academic Achievement Program (AAP). The mission of the AAP is to help all students master the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in law school and on the bar exam. For more information on the APP see: http://www.wmitchell.edu/current 7.1.1 Legal Reasoning Workshop I Legal Reasoning Workshop I is a one-credit course required for selected first-year students during the fall semester. The course focuses on learning strategies, case reading, case briefing, synthesis, outlining, and exam-taking skills. Because the curriculum uses torts doctrine, students are not required to prepare additional legal materials. There are frequent written assignments. Students also receive individualized feedback on every assignment. Instructors also meet with each student one-on-one to discuss the assignments and any concerns they may have. Students enrolled in Legal Reasoning Workshop I are not allowed to add courses in the Spring semester of the first year. 7.1.2 Legal Reasoning Workshop II - Constitutional Law Powers (Intensive) Legal Reasoning Workshop II is a one-credit course offered in the fall semester to second-year students. It provides in-depth focus on performance of legal analysis as well as strategies for preparing for and taking law school exams. Completion of the workshop is required for students ranked in the lowest 15% of the class after the first year but is open to all students if space is available. The course involves small group work and one-on-one meetings with the instructor. 7.1.3 Bar Preparation Strategies Bar Preparation Strategies is a two-credit, graded course offered the semester before graduation. It is a required course for students ranked in the lowest 15% of the class after the first year but is open to all students if space is available. The course is designed to help students refine the skills necessary to succeed on the bar exam and to give them a head start on the bar-preparation process. A full course description can be found on line. 7.1.4 Academic Support Initiative See Appendix for requirements of students ranked in the lowest 15% and lowest 25% of the class after the first year.
7.2 Semester or Year Long Independent Study Abroad Program An independent study abroad program undertaken at a foreign law school provides an excellent opportunity for students to expand their knowledge of comparative and international legal issues. Credits for an independent study abroad program are governed by the rules of William Mitchell College of Law and the American Bar Association (ABA). William Mitchell works with students to assist in developing a viable plan and in applying for ABA approval. 7.2.1 Requirements
1. Students who have completed their first year or equivalent, if part-time, may submit applications for independent study abroad programs. Generally, students should complete all of
their required courses at William Mitchell before seeking to study abroad, so students are generally in their third or fourth year before undertaking this independent study program.
2. The maximum number if credits a student may earn at a foreign institution is governed by section 4.10 (Limits on Visiting Away). Credits earned abroad may not be used to satisfy required courses at William Mitchell.
3. Credit is given for grades earned of “C” or better, “Pass” or the equivalent. Grades that satisfy criteria set forth in the Student Handbook may be transferred to William Mitchell. See §4.10 on Credits Earned at Other Law Schools, Student Handbook.
4. The granting of residency credit shall comply with the requirements of ABA standard 304. See http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/publications/misc/legal_education/Standards/chapter_3_2012_2013_aba_standards_and_rules.authcheckdam.pdf
5. Students must be fluent in the language of instruction at the foreign institution. 6. Students must receive pre-approval from the Associate Dean for Administration at William
Mitchell College of Law and the ABA before beginning any independent study abroad program. Courses taken or completed before approval is granted are not transferred to William Mitchell.
7. For your information the ABA Criteria for Approval of Individual Student Study Abroad for Academic Credit can be found at http://www.abanet.org/legaled/studyabroad/foreignstudyhome.html
7.2.2 Application Process Students need to apply no later than the beginning of the semester prior to the time they seek to attend the foreign program, approximately four months in advance – the earlier the better. Students must submit a proposal for their course of study to the Associate Dean for Administration. Proposal guidelines and a preformatted proposal form are available online at:
http://web.wmitchell.edu/students/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Transferofcreditrequest.pdf and
Independent research proposal or
in the Registrar’s Office. For more information regarding independent study abroad opportunities, contact the Associate Dean for Administration. Students pay the tuition and fees applicable to the foreign institution and do not pay tuition and fees at William Mitchell for the credits earned abroad. 7.2.3 Academic Advising The ABA Criteria for Approval of Individual Student Study Abroad for Academic Credit requires a full-time faculty member from William Mitchell and one professor from the foreign institution to supervise the student’s course of study. Students are strongly encouraged to fulfill all of William Mitchell’s required courses before studying abroad. This includes requirements for a long-paper, two skills course credits, and at least two statutory courses.
7.2.4 Financial Aid Financial aid availability for Study Abroad is based on the number of credits approved for the course of study (must have at least 4 credits in the Fall or Spring or 2 in the Summer to qualify for financial aid). The Study Abroad financial aid budget is based on estimated and actual costs which are determined by the host school and communicated directly to the William Mitchell financial aid office. William Mitchell scholarships are not portable to other schools. Early termination of your study abroad program may result in financial aid repayment. Summer Study Abroad financial aid applications are available on the William Mitchell financial aid website. Please contact the financial aid office for additional details and instructions. Study Abroad scholarships may be available. The following web sites provide scholarship search services: The University of Minnesota’s Online Study Abroad Directory and FASTWEB, which lists over 180,000 scholarships and loans.
7.2.5 Passports and Other Information Passports are required for entry into or for extended stays in most foreign countries. For extended stays, (the duration varies from country to country), most foreign countries also require visas. For the most recent travel information regarding passports, visas, foreign consulates in the U.S., and travel warnings go to www.state.gov/travel/. Most countries require proof of your ability to cover living expenses while living in their country. Proof often may be satisfied by obtaining a certified letter from a bank or from the Financial Aid Office at William Mitchell or the host foreign school, indicating the amount of your financial aid package. 7.2.6 Other Important Consideration and Helpful Hints Students are strongly advised to begin the application process as early as possible, as it requires approval from several parties; this task is lengthy and time-consuming. Students need to develop a reliable contact and gain permission from a full-time professor at the host foreign law school. It is wise to develop a specific contact, students can call at the foreign university, who is able to answer questions regarding the intended course of study. 7.2.7 ABA Approved Foreign Programs As another option, students may participate in law programs offered by any ABA-approved law school. There are many such programs, located around the world, which are run by ABA approved U.S. law schools. Some of these programs are offered in the summer and some are offered for one semester or longer. William Mitchell offers several such programs in collaboration with the Consortium for Innovative Legal Education (CILE). Current summer programs exist in England, Chile, Czech Republic, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Malta. Semester-long programs exist in Denmark and the Netherlands. See www.abanet.org/legaled/approvedlawschools/alpha.html for a complete list of ABA-approved schools.
8. CURRICULUM and GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
8.1 Course Requirements For students who matriculated for the first time in Fall 2011 and earlier (not including Fall 2011 Section 3 students and Fall 2012 Section 2 students – see below), the following applies:
Course First Year
(FT)
Second Year or
later (FT)
First Year (PT)
Second Year or
later (PT)
Civil Procedure
Constitutional Law Liberties
Constitutional Law Powers
Contracts
Professional Responsibility
Property I
Property II
Torts I
Torts II
Writing & Representation: Advice and Persuasion
Writing & Representation: Advocacy *
Some part-time students take a lighter load than reflected above. In those cases, Torts, Contracts and WRAP are taken in Year 1 and adjustments are made to the following years as necessary. *Part-time students typically take Writing & Representation: Advocacy in the Fall of the third year.
• Additional Skills Course Requirement (minimum of 2 credits) (choices listed under Skills Course requirements; see section 8.3)
• Statutory Course Requirement (minimum of 5 credits)
• Electives
Summary
Required Courses 39
Skills Courses 2 – minimum (in addition to 3 credit Advocacy)
Statutory Courses 5 – minimum
Elective Courses 40 (fewer than 40 if Statutory/Skills credits exceed 10)
Total Needed to Graduate 86
For students who matriculated for the first time in Fall 2011 and were in section 3, those who matriculated for the first time in Fall 2012 and were in section 2, and all who matriculated for the first time in Fall 2013, the following applies:
Course Credits First Year
Post-First Year
Civil Procedure: Dispute Resolution (meets Civil Procedure Requirement)
4
Constitutional Law Liberties 3
Constitutional Law Powers 2
Transactional Law: Contracts (meets Contracts requirement)
4
Professional Responsibility 3
Jurisprudential and Comparative Analysis: Property (meets Property I & II requirement)
4
Torts: The Common Law Process (meets Torts I & II requirement)
4
Writing & Representation: Advice and Persuasion 6
Writing & Representation: Advocacy 3
Criminal Law: Statutory Interpretation 3
Total Required Credits 36
Summary
Required Courses 36
Skills Courses 2 – minimum (in addition to 3 credit Advocacy)
Statutory Courses 5 – minimum
Elective Courses 43 (fewer than 43 if Statutory/Skills credits exceed 10)
Total Needed to Graduate 86
8.2 Perspectives on the Legal Profession Requirement
This requirement applies only to students who matriculated for the first time in Fall 2012 and earlier. Students must complete the requirements of the Perspectives on the Legal Profession program. This is a graduation requirement and successful completion of the program is indicated on a student’s transcript. See Academic Rules and Procedures for further details.
8.3 Skills Course Requirement Students are required to take a three-credit Advocacy course that focuses on client representation, negotiation, and advocacy skills. In addition to Advocacy, students must take at least one course from the following list of courses (minimum of 5 skills credits total). Advocacy is a prerequisite or co-requisite for some of the skills courses listed below. 8.3.1 Advanced classes in specific practice areas meld doctrine and skills
• IP – Appellate Practice • IP – Intellectual Property Transactions • IP-Licensing
• IP-Patent Litigation • IP-Patent Prosecution • IP-Trademark Litigation • IP-Trademark Prosecution • Tax Research
8.3.2 One-credit workshops connected to elective doctrinal courses
• Consumer Rights Workshop • Elder Law Workshop: Advising the Senior Client • Employment Law Workshop: Advising Clients and Drafting Employment Documents • Estates and Trusts Workshop • Legislation Workshop • Poverty Law Workshop: Administrative Appeals • Public International Legal Research Workshop I • Public International Legal Research Workshop II
8.3.3 Stand Alone courses focusing on specific lawyer skills or techniques
• 44-Hour Family Mediation • Alternative Dispute Resolution • Alternative Dispute Resolution – Advanced • Advanced Advocacy • Argumentation and Persuasion • Beyond Listening: Skills Essential to Managing Conflict • Business Buy/Sell Transaction Simulation • Client Counseling • Elder Justice and Policy • Estate Planning • Drafting International Business Agreements • International Negotiations and Dispute Resolution • Internet Legal Research Skills • Introduction to Commercial Arbitration • Law Firm Management: The Business of the Practice of Law • Legal Practicum: Business Practice • Legal Practicum: General Practice Negotiation • Negotiating and Drafting Business Agreements • Persuasive Legal Writing • Policy Analysis • Pretrial Litigation • Situational Communication and Problem Solving
8.3.4 Clinics and externships involve assisting lawyers and representing clients in real cases
• Administrative Law Externship • Bankruptcy Law Externship • Business Law Clinic • Child Protection Clinic • Civil Advocacy Clinic • Community Development Clinic • Court of Appeals Externship
• Criminals Appeals Clinic • Criminal Justice Externship • Family Law Externship • Immigration Law Clinic • Indian Law Clinic • Intellectual Property Law Clinic • Law and Psychiatry Clinic • Legal Assistance to Minnesota Prisoners (LAMP) Clinic • Legal Planning for Tax Exempt Organizations and Low Income Clients (formally Tax Planning Clinic) • Misdemeanor Clinic • The Reentry Clinic • Veteran’s Law Externship
8.4 Statutory Course Requirement
Students must take at least two statutory courses from the following list:
Administrative Law
Banking Law
Bankruptcy
Business – Agency, Partnerships, and Limited Liability Companies
Business Entity Taxation
Business - Corporations
Business Organizations
Copyright Law
Corporate Tax
Criminal Law
Employment Law Survey
Environmental Law
Environmental Law – Contaminated Property
Estates & Trusts
Family Law
Immigration and Naturalization
Income Tax
International Business Transactions
No-Fault Insurance
Patent Law
Payment Systems and Negotiable Instruments
UCC-Sales
UCC - Secured Transactions
Securities Regulation
Workers’ Compensation
8.5 Advanced Research & Writing Requirement
All students must write an Advanced Research & Writing (“ARW”) paper as a requirement for
graduation. Students are required to complete this requirement after their first year and are strongly
advised to complete it before their final semester.
8.5.1 Purpose & Content
The ARW requirement is consistent with American Bar Association accreditation standard 302, which
requires a “rigorous writing experience” after the first year. It is designed to reflect two key aspects of
the practice of law identified in the American Bar Association’s Model Rules of Professional
Responsibility. First, a lawyer is a counselor who is expected to “exercise independent professional
judgment and render candid advice.”1 Second, a lawyer “is a representative of clients, an officer of the
legal system and a public citizen having special responsibility for the quality of justice.”2
The ARW paper furthers five competencies essential to law practice:
(1) Legal research;
(2) Fact Investigation;
(3) Writing, including organization, grammar, and style;
(4) Strong personal work ethic and time management; and
(5) Creative problem-solving.
Although many ARW papers will take the form of a law review-style essay, other kinds of writing may
also satisfy the requirement. In each case, the focus is on using the competencies identified above to
identify and solve a problem of the sort confronted by lawyers. Description and regurgitation are not
enough.
Here are some illustrations:
Unlikely to satisfy ARW requirement Likely to satisfy ARW requirement
Essay describing a new case about the rights of
homeless people
Essay assessing current homelessness and
proposing new legislative approach
Business agreement based entirely (or nearly so)
on a model or form document
Business agreement requiring substantial
transactional analysis and problem- solving
Clinic brief reusing legal arguments made in other
clinic cases; moot court brief relying on facts
supplied by competition organizers
Clinic brief or amicus brief requiring development
of facts and presenting novel legal arguments
8.5.2 Permission & Credits
The paper should be written under the supervision of a full-time faculty member. Supervision by an
adjunct faculty member is permitted only if the paper is completed as part of an ARW-designated course
taught by that adjunct faculty member.
8.5.3 ARW-designated Courses
Some courses are designated by the Curriculum Committee and the instructor as satisfying the ARW
requirement. If a student wishes to write the ARW paper in conjunction with such a course, the
1 ABA MODEL RULES OF PROF’L CONDUCT R. 2-1.
2 ABA MODEL RULES OF PROF’L CONDUCT pmbl.
instructor should provide the student with any course-specific requirements. Students completing their
ARW papers in these courses receive the number of credits normally assigned to the course.
8.5.4 Law Review
Papers written as law review notes require the advance permission of the Law Review Editorial Board. A
student satisfying the ARW requirement through law review writing must obtain advance permission of
the Law Review Editorial Board. Such a paper receives the credit normally associated with law review
service.
8.5.5 Independent Research Project
A student may write an ARW paper as an independent research project (see additional information
under Independent Research in Course Descriptions found in the Student Web portion of the Mitchell
website). If the paper is to be completed in conjunction with independent research, the requirements
and deadlines for independent research apply. The College ordinarily grants up to two credits for such
projects. J-term independent research registrations are limited to one credit.
8.5.6 No Credit Option
The student may write the paper under faculty supervision but outside of a course or Independent
Research Project, in which case a student will receive no course credit. The student must discuss the
paper requirements with the supervising faculty member before commencing work on the paper.
8.5.7 Format
Regardless of form or genre, ARW papers shall ordinarily be at least 8,500 words, excluding footnotes.
This requirement is meant to ensure that the project is substantial enough to measure and develop the
five competencies identified above and to provide a summative writing experience for the student.
Beyond the length requirement, formats will vary according to context and should be appropriate to the
genre of the writing project. So, for example, essays should generally adhere to law review style
conventions, while briefs must adhere to good citation practices and the relevant jurisdiction’s filing
rules. Prior to the first draft, the student and supervising faculty shall identify the appropriate format for
the paper.
8.5.8 Writing Process and Deadlines
Unless the supervising faculty member requires otherwise, the paper is required to be written in the
following stages:
outline;
research plan;
partial first draft covering one or two parts of the paper;
full draft of all elements of the paper;
second full draft of all elements; and
final paper.
Students should expect significant feedback from their faculty supervisors at each of these stages.
Deadlines are set by agreement and must be honored. In the case of an Independent Research Project
or a paper in partial fulfillment of course requirements, missed deadlines may be taken into account in
grading, particularly if the student does not obtain an extension until after the deadline has passed. Final
papers are due no later than the last class meeting. An extension of the final due date must be
requested in advance and must be approved by the instructor and the Dean of Students. A Request for
Extension of Grade Due Date form can be obtained at http://web.wmitchell.edu/students/forms/ .
After the ARW paper is completed, the student should fill out and have the supervising faculty member
sign an Advanced Research & Writing Certification form (available at
http://web.wmitchell.edu/students/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/advwritingcert.pdf ). The signed form
must be submitted to the Registrar in order for the ARW requirement to be satisfied. In the case of an
ARW-designated course, the student does not have to submit a form, as the instructor indicates on the
grade sheet the students who have satisfied the ARW requirement.
8.6 Academic Requirements for Graduation
1. Students must complete a total of 86 credits with a cumulative average GPA of at least 2.0 to graduate from the J.D. program. For students who transferred to the college, and for those visiting another institution, a minimum of 24 credits must be earned at the college.
2. Under no circumstances may a student earn more than 89 credits in the J.D. program. At
registration, the student should designate any courses that exceed 89 total credits as “audits.”
3. The student should complete all curriculum requirements set forth in section 8.1 of the Student Handbook.
8.7 Administrative Requirements for Graduation
1. The college must have a student’s official undergraduate transcript on file. The transcript must be sent directly to the college from the registrar of the student’s undergraduate institution and must indicate that a bachelor’s degree was conferred at that institution. Transcripts reported by the Law School Data Assembly Service (LSDAS) are not official.
2. If a student received Title IV student loans (Federal Perkins/NDSL, or Federal Stafford, Federal
Unsubsidized Stafford, and/or Federal SLS programs), they must attend an on-line financial aid exit interview.
3. If a student received a Federal Perkins/NDSL loan, they also must complete an on-line exit
questionnaire.
4. All tuition, fees, and other charges owed to the college must be paid in full.
5. In accordance with the directive from the American Bar Association, the Career Development Office requires return of an on-line completed employment survey.
6. Bar Exam Questionnaire and Release.
7. Completion of the College’s on-line Graduation Information Form. Graduating students must meet all administrative and academic requirements prior to receiving a diploma and being certified to take the bar exam.
8.8 Diplomas
Approximately 10 weeks prior to commencement students are asked to specify their names as they are to be printed on their diplomas. All tuition and fees due to the college must be paid and all graduation requirements must be met prior to receiving a diploma.
9. ROSALIE WAHL LEGAL PRACTICE CENTER
The Rosalie Wahl Legal Practice Center (Rm. 254) is the location for many of the skills-based and experiential learning courses, including the required Writing & Representation courses (Advice & Persuasion and Advocacy), Legal Practicum, the clinics and externships, and other elective skills courses. The same area also houses the Legal Assistance to Minnesota Prisoners (LAMP) program, and the Minnesota Justice Foundation. Wahl Center administrative services are described below.
9.1 Writing & Representation Courses (Required courses for all William Mitchell students)
9.1.1 First Year: Writing & Representation: Advice & Persuasion Students may hand in or pick up completed WRAP assignments at the Wahl Center reception desk and speak to the WRAP Administrator. The WRAP tutor program operates out of the Wahl Center as well. 9.1.2 Second Year: Writing & Representation: Advocacy All questions concerning scheduling, course materials, and grading may be directed to the Advocacy Administrator. Students enrolled in Advocacy have individual files located in the lobby of the Wahl Center where their graded assignments may be reviewed throughout the semester.
9.2 Legal Practicum The Legal Practicum Administrator acts as a liaison and information source for course participants, plans the course schedule, governs scheduling matters, manages participants’ written work, and works with the Legal Practicum Director to compute and record interim and final grades. Although questions regarding the above subjects may be directed to the Legal Practicum Administrator, substantive questions should be addressed to the Legal Practicum Director.
9.3 Clinics and Externships Clinics and externships educate students in the practical arts of lawyering, develop students’ professional judgment, and provide legal representation to underrepresented individuals. The following clinics and externships are administered out of the Wahl Center: Administrative Law Externship; Bankruptcy Law Externship; Court of Appeals Externship; Criminal Justice Externship; District Court Externship; Family Law Externship; Federal Judicial Externship; Government Agency Externship; Independent Externship; Judicial Externship; Law & Business Externship; Veteran’s Law Externship; Work of the Lawyer Externship; Business Law Clinic; Child Protection Clinic; Civil Advocacy Clinic; Community Development Clinic; Criminal Appeals Clinic; Immigration Law Clinic; Indian Law Clinic; Intellectual Property Clinic; Law & Psychiatry Clinic; Legal Assistance to Minnesota Prisoners Clinic; Reentry Clinic; Misdemeanor Clinic; and Legal Planning Clinic for Tax-Exempt Organizations and Low Income Clients.
9.4 Student Certification by the Minnesota Supreme Court The Student Practice Rules are located in Minnesota Rules of Court. Eligible students may be certified by the Supreme Court to perform activities of an attorney in representing and appearing on behalf of a client. The Administrative Coordinator for Clinics and Externships handles these requests. To be eligible, a student must be currently enrolled, have completed and received grades for at least 24 credits, and be in good academic standing (minimum 2.0 G.P.A.).
There are two rules under which students may be certified in Minnesota (students seeking certification from a jurisdiction other than Minnesota should contact the Externship Director): Rule 1. General Student Practice Rule Applies to eligible law students who appear on behalf of any state, local, or other government agency, or any indigent person who is a party to a civil action or who is accused of a crime or a petty misdemeanor. The request for certification must be made by the government agency, organization, or person representing the indigent client. A written request with the student’s name and a statement that the student will be properly supervised should be sent to the Administrative Coordinator for Clinics and Externships. Students certified under Rule 1 will remain certified for one year. If certification will expire between the end of the semester and the student’s graduation from WMCL, the student must have their employer write the WMCL clinic administrator requesting recertification prior to the graduation ceremony to continue as a student attorney. It is the responsibility of the student to track the expiration date. Rule 2. Clinic Student Practice Rule Applies to eligible law students who are enrolled in a law school clinic course where representation of a client may occur. Students do not need to request certification. Names are submitted automatically through the clinic.
9.5 Other Elective Skills Courses Advanced Advocacy and Pretrial Litigation are elective courses administered by staff in the Wahl Center. (See J.D. Courses for descriptions.) All questions concerning scheduling, course materials, and grades should be directed to the appropriate skills course administrator. Files for students in Advanced Advocacy are kept in the lobby of the Wahl Center.
9.6 Legal Assistance to Minnesota Prisoners (LAMP) LAMP is a civil clinic that provides legal representation in civil matters for indigent inmates. Adjunct Professor in Residence, Bradford Colbert, directs the LAMP clinic and represents criminal defendants in appeals for the State Public Defender’s Office.
9.7 Minnesota Justice Foundation (MJF) The Minnesota Justice Foundation (MJF) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization working to meet the legal needs of low-income people by connecting law students with public service agencies and pro bono attorneys. MJF is the administrative agency of the Law School Public Service Program (LSPSP), which asks each law student to perform at least fifty hours of legal pro bono work during his or her law school career. Volunteer opportunities include legal research, client interviewing, courtroom observation, courtroom representation, and fact investigation in a variety of subject areas, including juvenile, criminal, family, immigration, housing, environmental, and health law. In addition to volunteer opportunities, MJF coordinates a Summer Clerkship Program, providing paid clerkships at public interest law offices in Minnesota. The MJF office coordinates volunteer placements and administers the Summer Clerkship Program and is located in room 253 of the Wahl Center.
10. BAR EXAM INFORMATION
10.1 Minnesota State Bar Examination Subjects and Comparable William Mitchell Subjects Current application materials, rules, and other related bar examination information for Minnesota can be found at www.ble.state.mn.us.
Starting with the February 2014 bar exam, Minnesota will now only administer the Uniform Bar Exam
(UBE). The Uniform Bar Examination has been adopted by these 13 jurisdictions: Alabama, Arizona,
Colorado, Idaho, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Utah,
Washington, and Wyoming.
Test format for the UBE:
• Multistate Performance Test (MPT): Two-90 minute questions on Tuesday morning • Multistate Essay Exam (MEE): Six-30 minute essay questions on Tuesday afternoon • Multistate Bar Exam (MBE): 100 multiple choice questions on Wednesday morning • Multistate Bar Exam (MBE): 100 multiple choice questions on Wednesday afternoon
The MEE portion of the UBE tests (if not obvious, WMCL course in which subject is taught is in
parentheses):
Business Associations (Agency, Partnerships and Limited Liability Companies and Corporations)
Conflict of Laws (We do not currently have a specific “conflict of laws” class in our curriculum. Federal Jurisdiction will provide you with coverage, which William Mitchell will likely offer next in the Fall 2014 semester)
Constitutional Law
Contracts (including contracts under Article 2 of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), taught in Sales at WMCL)
Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure (two courses taught separately at WMCL)
Evidence
Family Law
Federal Civil Procedure (taught in Civil Dispute Resolution or Civil Procedure and Advanced Civil Procedure at WMCL)
Negotiable Instruments (Commercial Paper) under the UCC (taught in Payment Systems at WMCL)
Real Property
Secured Transactions under the UCC
Torts
Trusts and Estates
The MBE portion tests:
Constitutional Law
Contracts
Criminal Law and Procedure
Evidence
Real Property
Torts
Civil Procedure (starting in February 2015)
10.2 Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam
The Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE) is required for admission to the bar in most states. Students should check with the board of law examiners in the state in which they plan to seek admission to the bar. Passing scores, which are established by each jurisdiction, are subject to change. Refer to the information booklet provided with the application to find out more on passing scores. The Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam is scheduled for March, August, and November of each year. Inquiries can be made to:
National Conference of Bar Examiners MPRE Application Department 2255 N. Dubuque Rd. P.O. Box 4001 Iowa City, IA 52243-4001 (319) 337-1287
You can also apply online at https://secure.ncbex2.org/php/ncbe_number/views/home.php
10.3 Bar Exam Certification In order to sit for a bar exam, a student must complete all requirements necessary for graduation, including payment in full of one’s student account and maintenance of a current balance on all Perkins loan accounts from the college. A student also must submit a bar certification from the college. Bar certifications for Minnesota are submitted automatically by the college. All others are submitted by request. The following is a list of State Bar Examination administrators for states in the region: Minnesota Minnesota Board of Law Examiners 180 E. 5th Street Suite 950 Saint Paul, MN 55101 TEL: 651-297-1857 FAX: 651-297-1196 www.ble.state.mn.us Other states: see the National Conference of Bar Examiners website at http://www.ncbex.org/bar-admissions/
B. STUDENT AFFAIRS
11. STUDENT CONDUCT CODE3
11.1 General Expectations and Community Standards As responsible members of the community, William Mitchell College of Law students are expected to maintain the highest ideals of academic and social conduct and are responsible for knowing the College’s published policies and standards. Students are also expected to respect the views and personal dignity of other members of the College community. In addition, students are expected to know the standards to which they will be held when they become lawyers. The Codes of Professional Responsibility published by each state’s bar association, describe these standards. Students should consult these codes for guidance.
11.2 General Provisions Individual and group responsibility: This Student Conduct Code is based on the assumption that individual and group responsibility is a part of the educational process. Disciplinary action can help encourage individual responsibility and self-discipline; protect the rights, freedoms, and safety of members of the College of Law community; and promote respect for the rights of others. Scope:
1. This Code applies to all students admitted to William Mitchell College of Law. The Code covers conduct that occurs from the time a candidate applies to the College, through the time a student graduates.
2. The Code applies to students enrolled in courses or programs sponsored or co-sponsored by the College of Law.
3. The Code also applies to student groups and organizations at the College of Law, regardless of whether they are formally recognized by the College of Law or receive funding, directly or indirectly, from the College of Law.
4. Investigations may be initiated or continued after a student has graduated, or after the student has completed the course or program, if the conduct at issue occurred while the individual was enrolled in the College of Law or in a program sponsored or co-sponsored by the College of Law. If a matter is pending when a student is scheduled to graduate, the student’s degree may be withheld until the matter is resolved.
5. The College of Law may take action for conduct that occurs on College premises, or at College sponsored (or co-sponsored) events, whether held on or off campus or in any other setting whether or not related to college activities.
11.3 Student Organizations and Group Responsibility
Conduct: Student organizations are expected to adhere to all applicable institutional policies and standards. Failure to do so may result in action being initiated against the group; consequently, the Code
3 Cases that allege violations of civil rights and discrimination (for example, cases alleging sexual harassment,
sexual misconduct, discrimination, etc.) are governed by other sections within this handbook and may or may not be concurrently processed as student conduct complaints.
applies to student organizations collectively. Student groups may be held responsible when any of the following conditions exist:
1. Members of the group act in concert to violate College of Law community standards.
2. A violation arises out of a group-sponsored, -financed, or -endorsed event.
3. A group leader has knowledge of the act or incident before or while it occurs and fails to take corrective action.
4. A pattern of individual violations is found to have existed without proper or appropriate group
control, remedy, or sanction.
5. Members of the group cover up or fail to report improper conduct to the appropriate College of Law officials.
Group Representative: One officer of the student group should be designated to represent the organization when a referral against that group is made under the Conduct Code. If the group does not designate an officer, the president or president-equivalent will be deemed the representative.
11.4 Prohibited Conduct 11.4.1 Violation of instructions Students must follow an instructor’s general and specific instructions concerning any assignment or examination. That is, in writing an examination or preparing an assignment a student may not use sources or collaborate with, or enter into discussions with other people, except as the instructor has authorized, nor may a student otherwise act contrary to the instructor’s instructions. In addition, students must follow instructions given by administrators. 11.4.2 Plagiarism Plagiarism, as described in Section 12, is a violation of the Student Conduct Code. In writing any paper or document other than a bluebook examination, a student may not borrow an idea or lift language from another source without giving full and accurate attribution by means of well-placed citations and, where there is a direct quote, accurate quotation marks. Not only direct quotes, but also paraphrased language, whether in text or footnotes, must be cited to the source the student used. A citation must appear every time a source is used; a citation that appears in one place does not serve as a citation to later use of the source. Sources include not only published material, but also electronic sources, unpublished manuscripts, briefs, and the like. This rule applies to papers and documents written for courses, independent study projects, the Advanced Research and Writing requirement, student competitions, research projects for instructors, articles for The Opinion, or any other college-related activity. This rule is subject to specific instructions by a faculty member or supervisor of the particular activity in question. In articles written for The Opinion, and similar publications, accepted journalistic standards may dictate different requirements. 11.4.3 Classroom conduct Students must not disrupt a class by inappropriate noise or distracting activity.
11.4.4 Library rules Students must follow all library rules published on the library website or otherwise publicly promulgated. A violation of any library rule is a violation of this Student Conduct Code. For specific rules related to the Library, see www.wmitchell.edu/library. 11.4.5 Respect for person and property of others Students and student organizations must respect the person and property of others. A student and student organizations must not assault, must not harass, threaten, or otherwise attempt to intimidate, or intrude upon the rights of, any other person. A student and student organizations must not purposely damage, or knowingly take, the property of any other person. 11.4.6 Honesty and integrity A student and student organizations may not engage in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation. 11.4.7 Other college rules From time to time, the college may issue specific or general rules. When these rules are announced through the Docket or otherwise widely published, they become binding on all students. A student who violates any such rule also violates the Student Conduct Code.
11.5 Sanctions A violation of the Student Conduct Code may result in expulsion from the college, suspension from the college, dismissal from one or more classes, fines, restitution, or any other appropriate penalty. Violations by student organizations may result in loss of funding and sponsorship from the college. The application of any penalty shall depend upon the seriousness of the offense and the presence or absence of mitigating factors. Execution of the penalty may be stayed pending successful completion of specified conditions of a probationary period.
11.6 Rules of Procedure 11.6.1 Service Service of notice or any other document may be completed either by personal service or by certified mail with a request for a return receipt. Notice by mail is effective on the date of mailing unless otherwise specified. Personal service upon the Dean may also be accomplished by delivery to any college employee in the Dean’s suite. 11.6.2 Definition References in this section 11 to ‘the Dean’ mean the Dean, or any person designated by the Dean to perform the acts required under these rules.
11.7 Initiation of Disciplinary Proceeding Any person may initiate a disciplinary proceeding under these rules by a signed, written complaint. The complaint shall state the essential facts constituting a violation of the Code. The complaint shall be served upon the Dean in accordance with the rule on Service. 11.7.1 Investigation The Dean shall promptly investigate the allegations of the complaint. Within 7 days of the service of the initial complaint the Dean must either: (A) dismiss the complaint for failure to allege a prima facie violation of the Code and notify the complainant of the dismissal, or (B) serve on the student charged a
copy of the complaint, a copy of these rules, a copy of the Student Conduct Code, and notice of the time and place for a conference with the Dean. 11.7.2 Disciplinary Action Within 14 days after serving the student charged with a copy of the complaint, the Dean must either: (A) dismiss the complaint and notify the student charged and the complainant of the dismissal or (B) make a written determination identifying, (1) any violation of the Code that has occurred, (2) the facts establishing the violation, and (3) any penalty authorized by the Code, and serve a copy of that written determination and notice of the right to appeal upon the student charged and the complainant. The notice shall contain the names of the members of the Code Committee. 11.7.3 Appeal A student may appeal from any disciplinary action, including any such action taken in any proceeding under the Discrimination Policy or the Sexual Harassment Policy. A student may perfect an appeal by serving written notice of appeal upon the Dean within 10 days after the student has been served with notice of the disciplinary action. The Dean shall promptly serve a copy of the notice of appeal upon the chairperson of the Code Committee. 11.7.4 Stay of Disciplinary Action The perfection of a notice of appeal shall stay disciplinary action unless the Chairperson of the Code Committee determines that the safety of persons or property would be jeopardized by a stay and so notifies the Dean and the student charged in writing. 11.7.5 Notice of Appeal Hearing If the student charged appeals, the Chairperson of the Code Committee shall, within 7 days of the service of the notice of appeal and at least 10 days prior to the date set for the hearing, serve notice of the time and place for the appeal hearing upon the Dean and the student charged. 11.7.6 Scope of Review The Code Committee shall examine the record for clear and convincing evidence of the violation. In doing so, the committee can in its discretion hear any new or additional evidence submitted by students, the Dean, or any other person. In addition, the committee on its own motion can invite persons to submit evidence. If the committee finds that the violation has not been established by clear and convincing evidence the committee shall dismiss the complaint. If the committee believes that a violation has been established by clear and convincing evidence, it will examine the sanction imposed to determine whether the disciplinary penalty is appropriate. If the committee finds that the disciplinary penalty imposed is not appropriate, the committee may assess any less or more severe penalty authorized by the Code. 11.7.7 Finality of Committee’s Decision The decision of the Code Committee shall be final and not subject to reconsideration, except on the grounds of newly-discovered evidence. Request for reconsideration must be served upon the Chairperson of the Code Committee within 30 days from the date of its decision. The Chairperson shall determine whether to grant the request. If the request is granted the committee shall hold an additional hearing. It shall give notice of the hearing as prescribed by these rules for the initial hearing. The hearing shall proceed in accordance with the rules governing initial hearings.
11.7.8 Majority Vote Unless otherwise specified all actions of the Code Committee shall be by vote of a majority. 11.7.9 Appeal Hearing Procedures
1. Composition of Code Committee. The full committee shall hear the appeal. The committee hearing the appeal shall consist of 3 full-time faculty members who serve on the Code Committee and are appointed by the Dean and 2 students appointed by the President of the Student Bar Association. If any faculty member is unable or unwilling to serve the Chairperson of the Code Committee shall name a replacement. If any student member of the committee is unable or unwilling to serve the President of the Student Bar Association shall name a replacement.
2. Objections. At any time the student charged may object for good cause to the participation in
the hearing of any members of the committee. If the Chairperson sustains an objection to a faculty member the Chairperson shall appoint a substitute instructor member. If the Chairperson sustains an objection to a student member the Chairperson shall ask the President of the Student Bar Association to appoint a substitute student member.
3. Open Hearing. The hearing shall be open to the public unless the student charged requests that
it be closed.
4. Record. A verbatim record of the hearing shall be made stenographically or by electronic recording. A transcript or tape recording shall be furnished at cost to the student charged upon request to the Chairperson of the Code Committee within 5 days after the hearing.
5. Representation. The student charged and the Dean may represent themselves at the hearing or
may be represented by persons of their choice. References hereafter to the Dean or student shall include the representative of each.
6. Evidence. Any oral or documentary evidence may be received by the committee, but the
findings of the committee must be based on reliable evidence. The Chairperson of the committee may prohibit the introduction of irrelevant or unduly repetitious evidence, or unreliable information.
7. Order of Hearing:
a. Opening Statements. The Dean and the student charged shall state the issues upon appeal and the contentions of each.
b. Presentation of Evidence. The Dean shall proceed first with the presentation of evidence, followed by the student charged.
c. Questioning. A witness may be questioned by the Dean, by the student charged, or by members of the committee.
d. Rebuttal. Following the presentation of evidence by the student charged, the Dean may offer evidence in rebuttal. The student charged may then offer evidence in surrebuttal.
e. Closing Statements. After all the evidence has been presented, closing statements may be made by the Dean and then by the student charged.
f. Continuance. If either the Dean or the student charged asserts surprise by any evidence presented, the Chairperson may grant a reasonable continuance in order to enable the surprised party to obtain evidence to meet the surprise.
g. Reopening. In the interest of justice, the Chairperson of the committee may permit either the student charged or the Dean to offer rebuttal evidence or to reopen that person’s case-in-chief.
11.7.10 Decision of Committee The committee shall make its decision within 10 days of the hearing. The decision shall be in writing and shall state the determinations of the committee. The Chairperson shall serve a copy of the decision upon the Dean, the student charged, and the complainant. Any disciplinary penalty approved by the committee shall go into effect upon service of the notice upon the student charged. 11.7.11 Amendments This Code may be amended only after an open meeting for all students to discuss the proposed amendments. 11.7.12 Construction Nothing herein shall be interpreted in a manner inconsistent with the ABA Standards for Approval of Law Schools or any other relevant accreditation standards, as amended from time to time.
12. PLAGIARISM
12.1 General Information 12.1.1 Definition Plagiarism is representing another person’s words or ideas as one’s own without proper attribution or credit. Another person’s words or ideas must be given adequate documentation whether used in direct quotation or in summary or paraphrase. 12.1.2 Prohibited Conduct The college’s Student Conduct Code prohibits the following conduct:
1. Using any sources that are forbidden by the instructor to complete an exam, written assignment, or other requirement for graduation;
2. Submitting the work of another as one’s own; 3. Engaging in any conduct that tends to give an unfair advantage to any students in any academic
matter. A student with knowledge of any violations of this section should report the violation promptly. The prohibition against “submitting the work of another as one’s own” includes a prohibition against plagiarism. There has been an increase in the number of disciplinary cases brought against students for this breach of the student conduct code. This prompts a reminder that the Student Conduct Code applies to all work completed as a student, and an explanation of the severity with which this breach is dealt. Regardless of the source, including online sources, the rule for proper attribution is relatively simple: cite the source. The following is additional commentary contained in the WRAP Manual:
When students derive an idea from a source he or she has read or from discussion with an authoritative person (such as a instructor), the student is obligated to so indicate in written work. If a student quotes the source or person, he or she must signify that the text is a quotation. Whether one uses a direct quotation or a paraphrase, an appropriate citation to the source must be provided. The consequences for breach of the Honor Code are severe. Students typically receive a grade of “F” in the course and may be expelled from the College, suspended for a period of time, dismissed from the class, or otherwise penalized by the College. Additionally, the disciplinary action is placed in the student’s file and reported to the board of bar examiners in every state where the student applies to take the bar examination.
12.2 Frequently Asked Questions about Plagiarism
1. Have I committed plagiarism if I fail to provide attribution in only one or two sections of my paper? If you have neglected to provide citations in one or two instances, your instructor will most likely treat the lapse as a failure to cite authorities properly, which should rightly result in a
lower grade. If you consistently fail to cite your sources throughout your paper, your instructor rightly would find that lapse to constitute plagiarism in violation of the Student Conduct Code.
2. Have I committed plagiarism if I read and take ideas from source A, but cite only source B, which
is cite in the footnotes of source A? Yes. You are obligated to cite source A, the source you use. You may and should also note that it cites source B. Ordinarily, it is better to read and evaluate source B and then cite it directly.
3. If I borrow ideas from a source, but then reorganize those ideas using my own words, must I cite the source I used? Yes. As stated in the WRAP Manual, when you use an idea (which may be quoted or paraphrased) from the work of another, you must cite the source you use.
4. Must I cite well-known facts? You are not obligated to cite well-known facts (e.g., the Bill of Rights was first adopted in 1791), but you must cite the sources from which you derived new ideas, information, or not so well-known facts.
5. If I find information or ideas in several sources, must I cite all of them? If you find the same idea or information in several sources, you are permitted to select an illustrative source, which you should cite. You are permitted to note that there are other sources by using the designation “e.g.”. The central point in this question is that you must indicate the idea is not your own, but is derived from other sources. See Bluebook Rule 1.2.
6. If I am uncertain as to how I cite a source or whether I should cite a source, where can I go for assistance? When in doubt, consult the Bluebook, ask an instructor, and cite the source as best you can.
13. NON-DISCRIMINATION AND NON-HARASSMENT POLICY – Deleted; See “3. Sexual Harassment, Harassment and Discrimination, and Sexual Violence Policy” in Appendix for comprehensive policy. 14. POLICY AGAINST SEXUAL HARASSMENT – Deleted; See “3. Sexual Harassment, Harassment and Discrimination, and Sexual Violence Policy” in Appendix for comprehensive policy.
15. PROBLEMATIC CONSENSUAL ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS POLICY
15.1 Introduction and Scope Many members of the College community form important personal and professional relationships with
other members; this is as it should be. Some of these relationships are consensual and romantic in
nature. While some consensual romantic relationships may be appropriate, others pose problems
because they cross professional boundaries, thereby undermining the employment and educational
environments that the College seeks to provide its faculty, staff, and students.
This policy addresses consensual relationships. Nonconsensual, or unwelcome, conduct of a sexual
nature is addressed in the College’s Sexual Harassment Policy.
15.2 Definitions
A romantic relationship is problematic when:
1. It involves one participant who is in a position of power over the other participant, and/or
2. One participant has the ability to give employment-related or education-related preference to
the other participant.
For purposes of this policy Faculty is intended to include assistant, associate, and professor of law,
resident adjuncts, adjuncts, assistant adjuncts, field supervisors, tutors, and any other roles that serve
the college in a teaching or advising capacity.
15.3 Policy Statement The College is committed to maintaining an academic and work environment in which the principles of
mutual respect and professional ethics are honored and apparent or actual conflicts of interest,
favoritism, or bias are avoided. Central to this commitment are the interactions among those in whom
the College has placed its trust to uphold these principles. This trust is put at risk when faculty, staff, or
students engage is consenting romantic relationships that involve persons of unequal power.
It is a violation of this policy for a faculty or staff member to engage in a problematic consensual romantic relationship. Students are strongly discouraged from engaging in a problematic romantic relationship. When a prohibited problematic romantic relationship arises that involves a faculty or staff member, the faculty or staff member shall promptly disclose it to the following:
1. Faculty: To the Vice Dean, Faculty or the President and Dean; 2. Staff: To the employee’s manager, the employee’s senior manager, the Vice President of Human
Resources, or the President and Dean. The college’s response will depend on the specific situation. In all situations, the response will include amelioration of the situation. For example, where feasible a subordinate’s or manager’s job
responsibilities may be modified. As another example, a professor-student romantic relationship will cease until the student no longer is a student in the professor’s class. Prohibited Relationships
The following are examples of problematic romantic relationships that are prohibited:
1. Faculty member and his or her student whom the faculty member currently teaches or advises. 2. Faculty member or his or her research assistant. 3. Staff member and a student over whom the staff member has an evaluative, decision-making
responsibility, or where the staff member coaches or counsels the student. 4. Manager and a subordinate (including student employees) reporting directly or indirectly to that
manager.
These relationships are prohibited whether or not the power is exercised or preference is given, because
the appearance of bias can seriously disrupt the academic or work environment.
Strongly Discouraged Relationships
The following relationships are strongly discouraged. The faculty member or manager involved must
promptly disclose the relationship as set out below to determine if a conflict of interest exists and if any
changes need to be implemented to maintain a culture of objectivity and avoidance of bias.
1. Faculty and a student who is not currently in the professor’s class. 2. Faculty member or Manager and a staff member who does not have a direct or indirect
reporting relationship with that faculty member or manager.
Exclusions
Consensual relationships between two co-workers where no workplace power differential exists in the
workplace are not “problematic relationships” as defined by this policy.
15.4 Disclosure
1. Faculty: To the Associate Dean, Academic Programs, Vice President, Human Resources or the
President and Dean;
2. Staff: To the employee’s manager, the employee’s Cabinet leader, the Vice President of Human
Resources, or the President and Dean.
15.5 Disciplinary or Corrective Action
A faculty or staff member found to have committed a violation of this policy may be subject to a broad
range of consequences, up to and including termination of employment. If necessary, a matter will be
referred to the appropriate disciplinary authority as required by College policy and by existing
agreements with the faculty to determine what corrective action is appropriate.
15.6 Questions
Please direct any questions to the appropriate office: for Staff – Human Resources; for Faculty –
Associate Dean, Academic Programs or Human Resources.
Faculty and staff are responsible for comporting themselves in a manner consistent with this policy.
16. SEXUAL VIOLENCE – Deleted; See “3. Sexual Harassment, Harassment and Discrimination, and Sexual Violence Policy” in Appendix for comprehensive policy.
17. WHISTLEBLOWER
17.1 Introduction William Mitchell College of Law (the "College") expects its employees to perform their duties in alignment with our mission, vision, and values, and in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and college policy and procedures. When we discover actions or behaviors that conflict with these standards we encourage faculty, staff, or students to make good faith report of observed or suspected misconduct or noncompliance with law or college policy or procedure because such disclosures are vital to the well-being of the entire college community. Retaliation against a person who makes such a report, or who participates in the fact finding, is prohibited. Any member of the William Mitchell community found to have violated this policy may be subject to corrective action.
17.2 Definitions
1. Under this policy, misconduct or noncompliance includes: a. violation of state and/or federal laws and regulations b. a serious violation of College policy c. the use of College property, resources, or authority for personal gain or other non-College
related purposes except as allowed under College practices 2. A Good Faith Disclosure is an allegation of misconduct or noncompliance made by an individual who reasonably believes that misconduct or noncompliance may have occurred. Such a belief is reasonable if a reasonable person in the whistleblower’s position would hold such a belief, based on the facts. 3. Retaliation means any adverse action against an individual because he or she has made a disclosure or has participated in an investigation involving a reported disclosure
17.3 Reporting Procedure If a student, faculty member or staff member suspects or believes that he or she has observed misconduct by a student, faculty member, staff member or any other person whom the student, faculty member or staff member encounters in the course of employment or education, the individual is encouraged to immediately report the conduct as follows:
1. Conduct by Students: To the Dean, a Vice Dean, or the Vice President of Student Affairs. 2. Conduct by Faculty and Staff: To the Dean, Vice President of Human Resources, or any member
of the President’s Cabinet. Complaints of observed or suspected misconduct involving the President and Dean should immediately be reported to an Officer of the Board of Trustees.
3. Another means of reporting a concern to a person listed above is to complete a Report Form (see Appendix) which may be submitted anonymously to the Vice President of Human Resources, Vice President of Finance, or the President & Dean by sending or submitting a sealed envelope addressed to the appropriate person at William Mitchell College of Law, 875 Summit Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105. However, it should be understood that any investigation may be hampered or be impracticable if the Reporting Person cannot be identified and questioned about the incident and related facts.
4. Communications made to persons other than those specified in this section are not “reports” under this policy, and thus might or might not be acted upon by the college.
5. Any person receiving a verbal or written report pursuant to the provisions of paragraphs 1-3 above, must immediately forward the report, as follows:
a. If the report alleges misconduct by a student, to the Vice Dean, Academic Programs; or b. If the report alleges misconduct by a faculty or staff member, to the Vice President,
Human Resources; or c. If the report alleges misconduct involving the President and Dean, to an Officer of the
Board of Trustees.
17.4 Complaints of Retaliation Retaliation directed towards anyone who makes a report of observed or suspected misconduct or who participates in the investigation of a report is prohibited. The Reporting Procedure described above should also be used if an employee believes he or she has been subjected to retaliation.
17.5 Investigation of Report Every report of observed or suspected misconduct made to any individual listed above will be promptly investigated by the Dean or the Dean's designee.
17.6 Questions Please direct any questions to the appropriate office: for Staff – Any member of the President’s Cabinet or Human Resources; for faculty – President and Dean, Vice Dean of Academic Programs, or Human Resources; for Students – President and Dean, Vice Dean of Academic Programs, or Vice President of Student Affairs.
C. STUDENT FINANCE
18. TUITION AND FEES
18.1 Tuition Costs For breakdown of tuition costs, please see the WMCL web site at: http://web.wmitchell.edu/student-accounts/. Students are required to view their student account financial status online to determine if an outstanding balance exists on their account, requiring a payment to be made. To view your student account, login to the student record login page and click on the Finance Status tab. Monthly statements will not be distributed.
18.2 Fees 18.2.1 Mandatory Fees See http://web.wmitchell.edu/student-accounts/. Student Bar Association fee: charged in Fall and Spring only. Auditing fees for alumni: Contact Office of Alumni Affairs Auditing fees for Students and non-Alumni holding a J.D.: Contact the Office of the Registrar to determine availability of courses and cost. Printing Fee
Each student will be charged a fee for 250 pages (double-sided pages count as 2) at the beginning of each Fall Term.
Any additional pages must be purchased via cash or check at the Library Circulation Desk in increments of 125 pages.
All unused pages will remain on students’ accounts until one year after graduation.
Students will not be able to opt out of this program 18.2.2 Other Fees Official Transcript: $3.00 Late Fees: See section 18.4.
18.3 Donations and Memberships Students are given the opportunity to make optional donations and payments. The suggested Minnesota Public Interest Research Group (MPIRG) donation per semester is $8.25. An annual student subscription for the William Mitchell Law Review is $25. An annual Minnesota State Bar Association (MSBA) membership is $30 to join the MSBA-Ramsey County District or $40 to join the MSBA-Hennepin County District. The annual student subscription to the ABA/Law Student Division is $20. Students also may donate to the Lew G. Wallace Emergency Student Loan Fund, Counseling Services, and the Loan Repayment Assistance Program. Students wishing to make donations or pay for subscriptions should visit the Accounting Office if they did not receive a Donations and Memberships/Subscriptions form in either their registration or admissions packet. Prices subject to change.
18.4 Time of Payment and Finance Charges (Late Fees) At William Mitchell College of Law, the payment of tuition and any required and/or elected fees becomes the obligation of the student at the time of registration. William Mitchell College of Law bills students monthly. If the due date is a weekend or holiday, the due date shall be the next business day. If
the amount due is not paid by the 15th day after the due date, a late fee may be assessed and the student’s account will fall into past due status. Past due accounts will be subject to the following actions:
Registration will be denied
Transcript requests will not be processed
Grades will be withheld
Students will be Administratively Withdrawn from classes
Certification of Graduation sent to the State Board of Law Examiners will be withheld
Past Due accounts assigned to a collection agency will be assessed interest and any other additional collections costs.
If any part of a payment due is not paid on or before the fifteenth day following its due date, a late fee charge of .67% (annual percentage rate of 8%) of the overdue amount is assessed. The College reserves the right to grant or deny credit based on an individual’s past payment experience. Tuition payment by credit card is not accepted.
18.5 Full Payment Plan The Full Payment Plan requires that all tuition and any required and/or elected fees are paid before classes begin. If a student is receiving full financial aid the payment due date does not apply. A required fee is defined as any fee or charge that is not voluntary of the student. An elected fee is defined as any fee or charge that is voluntary of the student. See http://web.wmitchell.edu/student-accounts/payment-plans/for deadlines.
18.6 Installment Payment Plan The Installment Payment allows students to spread the cost of tuition over three installments. Financial Aid received by the college will be credited in full to the student’s account. See http://web.wmitchell.edu/student-accounts/payment-plans/ for deadlines. If the amount of financial aid exceeds tuition and other charges for the semester or session, students are not eligible for the installment plan. The Installment Payment Plan is only offered during the Fall and Spring semesters.
18.7 Employer/Outside Agency Tuition Reimbursement Students expecting to receive employer tuition reimbursement, or any other outside tuition reimbursement, should consult with the Accounting Office at the beginning of the semester when the reimbursement is to occur. Documentation from the employer, or outside agency, is required at this time. Once documentation is on file in the Accounting Office, tuition payments may be deferred, and subsequently, late fees waived.
18.8 Student Refund Checks Credit balances from fully paid student accounts will be distributed by check in accordance with any applicable Federal Regulations. Student refund checks may be picked up in the Finance Office or can be mailed by request. Refund checks not picked up within 21 days of the check date will be returned to the
loan holder unless the student specifically requests that the check be sent directly to him/her and a current mailing address is provided. Students may return all or a portion of their refund check via the Finance Office up to 21 days after the date of the check. After that date, the student must return any excess funds directly to the loan holder. First refund checks in each semester will generally be available at the end of the semester add/drop deadline and every Friday afterwards. Specific dates are announced on the Docket.
18.9 Finance Department The Finance Department is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Services for students include the following:
Receipt of billed tuition and fees
Payroll check disbursement
Student refund check disbursement
Student account related inquiries
1098 tax form inquiries
18.10 Withdrawal from a Course – Add/Drop-Effecting Tuition Add/drop activities, once an academic term has begun, that result in a net reduction in tuition may incur a tuition liability based on the tuition refund schedule. Students who drop from full-time to part-time or from part-time to below 8 credits will have a refund calculation performed by the Finance Office where any tuition liability will be recognized and applied to the students’ accounts. Add/drop activities, once an academic term has begun, that result in a net increase in tuition will be billed accordingly in the next billing cycle. Credit balances from fully paid student accounts will be distributed by check in accordance with any applicable Federal Regulations. For additional questions regarding add/drop of classes, please see Registration, Withdrawals, and Records. For the Tuition Refund Schedule see http://web.wmitchell.edu/student-accounts/tuition-refund-schedule/
18.11 Withdrawal from the College – Tuition Refunds For the process on how to Withdraw from the College see section 2.10. Students who fully withdraw from an academic term, once the term has started, will have a tuition liability calculation completed by the Finance Office. The calculation will be based on the day of the official withdrawal and subject to the percentages listed on the WMCL website under “Tuition Refund Schedule” for the specific academic term. After the 60% point in a term, no refunds for tuition are given. Students who receive federal financial aid will have a calculation done for Return of Title IV Funds as well. Any remaining balance on a student account after these calculations are performed is due immediately. William Mitchell College of Law will process withdrawal calculations within 10 days after the withdrawal form is received in the Finance Office.
If, at the time of withdrawal, a student’s tuition payments exceed the amount of tuition liability, the Finance Office uses the overpaid amount to reduce any student aid awarded before returning any funds to the student. Aid is refunded to student financial aid programs in the following order, as mandated by federal and state regulation:
1. Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loan 2. Subsidized Federal Direct Loan 3. Graduate Plus Direct Loans 4. Federal Perkins Loan 5. Other Title IV (Federal) Financial Aid Programs 6. Other Federal Sources 7. Institutional Aid 8. Private Aid (private loans, outside scholarships, etc.) 9. SELF Loans (or other state aid) 10. Student
18.12 Return of Title IV Funds
Return of Title IV Funds is a federally mandated policy that applies only to students who receive federal financial aid and who withdraw from the college, drop out, are dismissed, or take a Leave of Absence during an academic term. The college will evaluate the student’s account with respect to the federal Return of Title IV Funds regulation to determine how much aid, if any, must be returned to Title IV loan programs. The Title IV funds considered in the policy are the Federal Subsidized/Unsubsidized loan, Federal Grad Plus loan, and the Federal Perkins Loan. The policy does not apply to the Federal Work-Study Program.
18.13 Policy on Tuition for Students Returning from Active Duty in the Military Tuition for students who enter active duty in the military will be charged as follows: In times of war: Tuition will be charged at the level that would have been charged during the period the student was serving in the military if the student is called into or voluntarily enters active duty. For example:
If a student was serving in the Military during a time of war in:
returns in Tuition would be at
2010-11 2013-14 2010-11 level for 2013-14
2011-12 level for 2013-14
etc.
In non-war times: This section applies in non-war times when the student is called into service involuntarily. The section does not apply when a student voluntarily enters active duty during non-war times. There is a three year look back limit. For example, if a student returns after a five year absence, the tuition would be at the level from three years prior to the date of return. This section applies to entering students who have made an admission deposit with the College as well as to all currently enrolled students.
19. FINANCIAL AID
19.1 Financial Aid Office The Financial Aid Office administers student loan programs, the federal work-study program, and institutional scholarships. Application materials and information are available from the Financial Aid Office and on the William Mitchell web site www.wmitchell.edu/services/finaid. Financial aid information is communicated by mail, e-mail, on the William Mitchell web site, and in the Docket. Financial aid is available as federal work-study program eligibility, federal student loans, and scholarships. Financial aid pays for tuition, fees, books, supplies, and budgeted living expenses for periods during which an admitted student is enrolled for at least 4 credits in the Fall or Spring or 2 credits in the Summer term. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines annual eligibility for financial aid. FAFSA applications are available at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The William Mitchell federal school code is G02391. A priority FAFSA application deadline of March 15th is observed each year to facilitate awarding of limited funds, i.e. work-study, Perkins loan, and scholarship funds. Students may continue to submit FAFSA applications after that date for consideration of any remaining limited funds and federal student loan programs. Academic eligibility for federal financial aid is reviewed annually (see: http://web.wmitchell.edu/financial-aid/academic-eligibility-for-financial-aid/). Students who do not meet satisfactory academic standards at the start of fall semester are not eligible to receive financial aid. Notification of non-eligibility can occur at any point in the financial aid cycle, and if disbursement has occurred, funds will be withdrawn and the student billed directly. Disbursement of financial aid items is through student accounts managed by the Finance Office.
19.2 Cost-of-Attendance (also known as the student’s “budget”) 19.2.1 Establishing the Cost-of-Attendance Each year, the financial aid office establishes a modest and adequate cost-of-attendance budget which includes tuition, fees, books, supplies and living expenses. Budget details can be viewed at http://web.wmitchell.edu/financial-aid/living-expenses-and-tuition-2013-14/. The FAFSA process results in an expected family contribution (EFC) number, which is compared to the student’s cost-of-attendance. The difference between the two numbers is the student’s eligibility for “need” based financial aid items. Need based financial aid items will be offered when available. Students will be offered financial aid items equal to the total cost-of attendance for the student’s program. The total amount of all need and non-need financial aid items from both on and off campus sources cannot exceed the student’s cost-of-attendance. A separate, summer cost-of-attendance is established for summer registration. 19.2.2 Adjustments to the cost-of-attendance Adjustments to the cost-of-attendance are made on a case by case basis when special circumstances are documented and submitted for consideration by the Financial Aid Office. In general, cost-of-attendance adjustments can be made for reasonable child care expenses, uninsured, non-elective medical expenses, student insurance premiums, and a one-time computer purchase. Request forms for adjustments are available at http://web.wmitchell.edu/financial-aid/forms-and-additional-resources/ and must be accompanied by detailed documentation specific to school year. Adjustments to the cost-of-attendance cannot be made for consumer debt, lifestyle choices, moving expenses or other expenses which are not specific to the academic program.
19.3 Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program
Federal Work-Study program eligibility is need based. Funds are limited. Work study eligibility is awarded on a priority basis based on the March 15th FAFSA application deadline. Holding a work-study job allows students to earn, rather than borrow, some of their financial aid eligibility. Work-study funds are paid in the form of a paycheck from the work-study job. To apply for work-study jobs, review on-campus and off-campus job listings in the Career Development area of the William Mitchell Web site, Simplicity, or visit the Career Development Office, Room 103. Job listings are most plentiful at the start of each semester. Work-study may be used at anytime throughout the academic year. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for further information.
19.4 Scholarships and Awards The total value of all scholarships, grants, stipends and fellowships, whether from on or off campus sources, cannot total more than the student’s total tuition charges. For example, some law review positions may include the possibility of earning a stipend. In such a case, the student holding the position may earn a portion or the entire stipend, depending on the individual student’s financial aid package. If, for example, a student is on a full scholarship, she will not be able to earn any of the law review stipend. If a student is on 85% scholarship, he will be able to earn the stipend up to the total tuition charges for the academic year. This may or may not be the entire stipend. 19.4.1 Merit-Based Scholarships The college awards merit-based scholarships to entering students, some of which are renewable if the recipient meets specific criteria. Scholarships open for application during the academic year will be announced in the Docket. Newly available scholarships continue to be announced on the Docket, and remain listed in the financial aid section of the Docket until the application period has closed. Scholarships are credited to student’s account at the beginning of each semester. A student entering the college as a first-year student who was not awarded a scholarship at the time of admission who then achieves a 10% co-hort ranking at the close of spring semester is eligible for an Academic scholarship, to be awarded the following fall (transfer and advanced standing students do not qualify). If scholarship retention criteria are not met, forfeiture of the scholarship will be effective with the term immediately following spring semester after grades/rankings are made available. Withdrawal from the college before the end of the semester for which a scholarship was awarded will cause forfeit of the full amount of the scholarship. 19.4.2 Fellowships Fellowships are paid to SBA officers and to Law Review editorial staff. Fellowships are included in financial aid totals. The total amount of scholarships, grants, and fellowships received cannot exceed a student’s total tuition bill. 19.4.3 Outside Scholarships Throughout the academic year, the college receives information about scholarships from outside organizations. Scholarship announcements are published on the Docket. Outside scholarships are counted into financial aid item totals.
19.5 Student Loans William Mitchell participates in the Department of Education Direct Loan Program. Eligibility for Perkins, Unsubsidized, and Grad PLUS federal loan programs require submission of the “Free Application for Federal Student Aid” (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The William Mitchell federal school code is G02391.
The type of federal loans a student is eligible to apply for is determined by the results of the processed FAFSA. Students may apply for private loans through commercial lenders and have those loans processed through the financial aid office. International students who do not qualify for federal loans should contact the William Mitchell Financial Aid Office for assistance and information. It is the student’s responsibility to complete the appropriate loan applications and promissory notes. Complete loan program details including borrower rights and responsibilities are available from lenders. Early application is encouraged to assure that funds are available no later than the first day of classes. Unpaid student accounts may be assessed late fees, and an academic hold may be placed if funds are not received in a timely matter. See §16.4 Time of Payment & Finance Charges. 19.5.1 Federal Perkins Loan
Need based
Subject to funds availability
$6,000 annual program limit/$40,000 aggregate limit
5% fixed interest rate accrues no interest until repayment
William Mitchell College of Law is the lender
9 month principal repayment grace period after graduation, student leaves school, or is less than halftime
19.5.2 Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Need based (changing to non-need based effective 2013-14)
$138,500 aggregate maximum
6.8% fixed interest rate
1% loan origination fee
6-month principal repayment grace period after, graduation, student leaves school or is less than half time
No credit check is required
Subsidized loans (need based) accrue no interest until repayment: $8,500 annual maximum. Loan subsidies will be eliminated effective 2013-14.
Unsubsidized loans accrue interest from initial disbursement: $20,500 annual maximum
All first time borrowers must complete a Loan Program Entrance Counseling session
Borrowers who graduate or leave the college must complete a Loan Program Exit session before their graduation will be certified or transcript will be released.
19.5.3 Federal Grad PLUS loan
Non-need based
No aggregate maximum: limit is the cost-of-attendance minus all other aid received
7.9% fixed interest rate
4% loan origination fee
No grace period
Credit approval is required
Interest accrues from initial disbursement 19.5.4 Private Educational Loans US citizenship or Visa status is required for Federal loan eligibility. International students may apply for a private loan. All students may substitute private commercial loans for federal loan eligibility. Please visit the Financial Aid office to discuss your plans.
19.5.5 Lew G. Wallace Memorial Emergency Loan Fund (ESL’s) Emergency Student Loans (ESL’s) are short-term no interest loans used for extraordinary financial circumstances that may arise during a student’s enrollment at the college. Extraordinary circumstances are those that create a financial hardship that cannot be alleviated by alternative funding options. The Financial Aid Director must approve all ESL requests. The following conditions apply:
A student may receive no more than a total of four loans with a combined total of $4,000 during his or her course of study at the college.
No more than one ESL per semester with a maximum limit of $1,000 will be approved.
There will be a 24-hour waiting period once the request is received in the Finance Department.
Loans will only be approved if there is a verifiable source for repayment that meets the following time restrictions:
o The maximum repayment period is 90 days if a student is receiving financial aid and a distribution for the current term is forthcoming.
o The maximum repayment period is 90 days from receipt of loan if a student is not receiving financial aid.
The unpaid balance of ESL’s after the due date will be placed on the student’s account and will accrue interest and penalties until the balance is paid in full. Late payments will affect a student’s ability to use the ESL fund in the future.
Students with past due ESL balances will not be permitted to register, to receive grades, transcripts, or bar certifications.
19.6 Enrollment Verification
The College verifies a student’s enrollment to outside interested parties for a variety of reasons. These include deferment of educational loans, insurance, and certification of enrollment status for third-party funding (e.g. VA benefits, employer reimbursement). For these verifications the College uses the following definitions: For Fall and Spring Semesters Full-time enrollment: 8 or more credits Half-time enrollment: 4 – 7 credits Less than half-time enrollment: 1 – 3 credits For Summer Session: Full-time enrollment: 4 – 7 credits Half-time enrollment: 2 – 3 credits Less than half-time enrollment: 1 credit The above credit levels apply to enrollment verification only and are not the definition for tuition billing levels. The levels for tuition billing can be found at http://www.wmitchell.edu/services/tuition-aid/tuition-financial-aid.asp. For loan deferment eligibility you must be at least a half-time student as defined by the above credit criteria.
19.7 Deferment of Existing Student Loan Payments WMCL works in conjunction with the National Student Clearinghouse to report student’s enrollment status 3-4 times each semester. The purpose of this report is to inform lender(s) of a student’s current enrollment level so the lender(s) can determine eligibility for deferring loans. The information is
transmitted electronically to the Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse then forwards the enrollment status directly to the holder(s) of the student’s existing loans. The first electronic transmission is submitted approximately two weeks after classes begin in the fall term and continues monthly throughout the entire academic year. The servicer(s) of the loan(s) will process the deferment status retroactively to the first date of class. This activity is conducted electronically and without paper deferment forms. If a deferment form is received, you can submit it to the Registrar’s Office for processing. However, if your lender/servicer works with the Clearinghouse, the paper form is not necessary.
19.8 Academic Eligibility for Financial Aid
Federal financial aid eligibility requires students to make satisfactory academic progress toward their degree. Academic progress is measured qualitatively, quantitatively, and incrementally as follows: 19.8.1 Qualitative Standards A student’s cumulative G.P.A. must be at least 2.0, or if below 2.0, the student must meet the Academic Affairs Committee’s requirements for Academic Probation. 19.8.2 Quantitative Standards A student must complete his or her J.D. degree within 6 years of matriculation, or is subject to dismissal from the college as stated in the Academic Rules and Procedures. 19.8.3 Incremental Standards To ensure that students progress toward completion of their J.D. within the maximum time frame of 6 years, students must complete a minimum number of credits by the end of spring semester of each year:
Year One: 14 credits
Year Two: 28 credits
Year Three: 42 credits
Year Four: 56 credits
Year Five: 71 credits
Year Six: 86 credits
D. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY USE and EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
20. INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
20.1 Policy Statement William Mitchell College of Law encourages use and application of technology to enhance students’ legal education by providing the ability to conduct legal research and to efficiently communicate with faculty and other members of the college and the legal community. The technology tools include, but are not limited to, computers, telephones, on-line library databases, e-mail, and Intranet/Internet. Access to various technology tools available at the college is a privilege extended to current students and requires that individual users act responsibly. Users must respect the rights of others, respect the integrity of systems and related physical resources, and observe all relevant laws, regulations, and college policies. The college reserves the right to access all information in its technology tools for business purposes. Business purposes may include day-to-day management of the systems, monitoring user performance or productivity where applicable, investigating possible violations of this or other college policies, such as sexual harassment, the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information, misuse of college resources or property, or a violation of law. There is no privacy nor expectation of privacy associated with a user’s college account. The college reserves the right to extend, limit, restrict, or deny privileges or access to its technology tools.
20.2 Security Users are expected to keep passwords confidential and user passwords may be overridden by the college as necessary for business or administrative reasons. The student to whom the account is assigned is the only person authorized to use the account. Please report any unauthorized use of your account to the Information Technology Vice President.
20.3 Usage Accounts will be terminated twelve (12) months after the end of the last semester, in which the student was enrolled. User access may be suspended or terminated by the college at any time with or without notice. In your senior year, around the time of senior summation, IT will create an Alumni email account that you can begin using at that time. It will be available for your use for as long as you keep it active.
20.4 Acceptable Uses/Limitations Examples include but are not limited to:
The college’s technology tools are to be used primarily for college business purposes. Use of any college system for the benefit of any student or third party is expressly prohibited. Students are permitted to use technology tools in a prudent manner for personal use as long as it does not interfere with the use of technology by other members of the college community.
Users do not own accounts on college computers, but are granted the privilege of use. The college may revoke this privilege if college policies are not followed. Users may not share their accounts with others and must keep account passwords confidential.
The college cannot guarantee that messages or files created, stored, received or sent through college technology systems (including computers, telephones, hard drives, disks, etc.) are
private or secure. The college may monitor and record usage to enforce its policies and may use information gained in this way in disciplinary actions against the user.
Users must adhere strictly to software licensing agreements and copyright laws.
Only software that has been authorized by the college may be loaded or used on any college computer. The Information Technology Services Department is responsible for loading or removing any software.
20.5 Prohibited Conduct
Examples include, but are not limited to:
Sending, storing, or accessing harassing, pornographic, obscene, offensive, or otherwise inappropriate information or material.
Deliberate attempts to access files or information that the user is not authorized to access.
Downloading music or videos due to the impact on system performance.
Unauthorized attempts to view and/or use another person’s accounts, computer files, programs, or data.
Use of college resources for any commercial activity or for-profit services.
Any attempts to disable or compromise the security of information contained on college’s computers.
Copying software protected by copyright.
Initiating or propagating electronic chain letters.
Inappropriate mass mailings to newsgroups, mailing lists, or individuals.
Unauthorized broadcasting: of unsolicited mail or information.
Failure to limit personal use of the computer.
Attempts to disrupt, subvert, or circumvent the college’s access to any data, communications, systems, files, or passwords.
Posting a message on an Internet bulletin board, World Wide Web document, or any publicly available Internet site which in any manner refers to the college and its programs and services, or which might be interpreted as stating a college position or policy, without express advance approval of the President and Dean, unless the message clearly indicates that it reflects only the views of the author and not the college.
20.6 Violations
Any suspected violation of this policy should be directed to the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. Violations may result in disciplinary action.
20.7 Questions Users of the college’s technology tools are encouraged to ask questions and understand the topics covered in this policy. Questions should be directed to the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life.
21. FACILITIES POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
21.1 Accidents and Injuries on Campus All accidents and injuries on campus should be reported to the on-duty security officer as soon as possible. The on-duty security officer may be reached by phone at (651) 290-6330, by radio at (651) 224-8763, or by pager at (612) 527-3533. There are first aid kits available at the Summit Avenue security desk; the Copy Center; and in Student Services.
21.2 Alcohol The use of alcoholic beverages on campus is prohibited. Exceptions may be approved for college- or student group-sponsored activities such as receptions and other special events. When an exception is approved, such beverages are limited to wine and beer, and non-alcoholic beverages also must be available. All requests for exceptions must have a campus sponsor (staff or faculty member) and be approved in writing by the Dean of Student Affairs. To begin the process, obtain an approval form in the Finance Office.
21.3 Tobacco-Free Environment Smoking is not permitted inside the facilities. Smoking is only permitted outside in the posted designated location on the north side (Portland) of the 1953 building.
21.4 Emergency Procedures for Fires 1. Pull the nearest fire alarm box. This will sound alarms in the building and cause all smoke barrier
doors to close automatically. 2. Evacuate people from the fire area. 3. Shut the door to confine the fire. 4. Call Security, extension 330 or (651) 224-8763, when you are in a safe place, to advise them on
the type and status of the fire. Security will call 911. 5. If possible, assist in locating the fire extinguisher for a small fire and return with Security to the
area of the fire. IF THE FIRE IS OUT OF CONTROL, IMMEDIATELY EXIT THE BUILDING. DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS. If there is anyone in the area that needs assistance evacuating the building, notify Security immediately.
6. If the fire is outside your room and the door or exit is hot, stay in the room, stay low, open a window for fresh air, and if you are able, call Security, extension 330 or (651) 224-8763 to report your location. If there is no phone available, call out for help.
7. The fire department will advise Security if and when the building can be safely re-entered. You may not re-enter the building until the fire department gives the all clear.
8. Report details of the fire to Security immediately. 9. If the college closes as a result of a fire the Dean or Dean’s designee will notify the college
community.
21.5 Emergency Procedures for Storms The severe-weather sirens are tested on the first Wednesday of each month at 1 p.m. At any other time the sirens blow, proceed as follows: Immediately proceed to the library building. In the library building, take the stairs to the lower level. Stay clear of the outside perimeter windows. The lower level library easily holds all occupants of the building. Remain in the lower level of the library until the all-clear status is announced by Security
personnel. Staff should proceed to the main stairwell of the basement level of the 1931 building or the library and remain there until the all-clear status is announced by Security personnel.
21.6 Escort Service and Security
The college Security staff is on duty when the library building is open. Normal hours of operation are: Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to midnight; Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday from 8 a.m. to midnight. Students may contact the on-duty security officer through a telephone interconnect system that functions through a two-way radio system. The security number is (651) 224-8763; (651) 290-6330 (direct); (612) 527-3533 (pager). Because the system operates through a radio repeater system, there may be a delay in the conversation with a security officer. With the exception of the delay, the interconnect operates as if the call is being made to another telephone. Also, a security officer may be contacted at the Summit Avenue main security desk. All persons are requested to cooperate with a security officer who asks for identification. All crimes occurring on campus must be reported to the on-duty security officer, who will contact the St. Paul Police Department. The Security Department maintains an escort service when the library building is open. A security officer will provide an escort within a 6-block radius of the campus. Students may request an escort by contacting a security officer at the Summit Avenue main security desk. Security escorts are available until 30 minutes before Library/Building closing time.
21.7 Identification Cards New students must obtain a photo identification card during orientation. Students need a college I.D. to register and to borrow library materials. During the first week of orientation the Media Specialist photographs the students for the I.D. card. After that time, students should contact the Facilities Manager at (651) 290-6457 for replacement or a new card. There is a $10 replacement charge for the card.
21.8 Lockers Lockers are available for students to rent through the Switchboard desk for $40 per year. Call (651) 290-6350 for more information.
21.9 Lost & Found The college’s Security staff is responsible for securing lost items. To turn in or claim an item contact Security at the Summit Avenue security desk, (651) 224-8763; or extension 330. Lost items may be claimed from the person staffing the Summit Avenue security desk by providing a complete description of the item. A claimant must sign for valuable items. Any items not claimed within one week may be discarded.
21.10 Parking Policy There are various restrictions on parking on the streets near the college. These restrictions are designed to make some parking available for the residents of the neighborhood. It is important that all William Mitchell students respect these restrictions because it is a way for the college to be courteous to those people with whom we share the neighborhood. Also, it is against the law to violate these restrictions.
Possession of a William Mitchell parking permit does not guarantee the permit holder a parking space; it merely guarantees your right to seek, and park in, an available spot in accordance with the following policies. William Mitchell provides parking on its property, and the college has an agreement to use spaces located across Victoria Avenue in the Summit Avenue Assembly of God Church lot and the House of Hope Church lot located on the corner of Summit and Grotto. The following location names are designated by initials hereafter:
Summit Avenue Assembly of God - AOG William Mitchell College of Law, Summit/Victoria - WMCL/V
House of Hope Church, Summit/Grotto - S/G William Mitchell College of Law, Portland- WMCL/P
Parking in the WMCL/P lot is restricted to instructor and staff during the day, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. After 5 p.m., students with a valid Summit/AOG parking permit are permitted to park in this lot. The WMCL lots are open to faculty, staff, and students with valid permits except from 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. During this time, vehicles may be ticketed and towed at the vehicle owner’s expense unless the owner has received prior authorization from security. The northwest corner of the WMCL/V lot is the designated parking area for motorcycle and bicycle parking. The AOG lot is open for faculty, staff, and students with valid permits except on Wednesdays after 5 p.m. and on days when the lot is posted for church parking due to special events (weddings, funerals, etc.). Vehicles with college permits parked in the AOG lot on Wednesdays after 5 p.m., or when it is posted for church parking only, may be ticketed and towed at the vehicle owner’s expense. The S/G lot is available for first-year students; however, faculty, staff, or students with valid William Mitchell parking permits may park in this lot. All vehicles parked in the WMCL, AOG, or the S/G parking lots between 7 a.m. and midnight, Monday through Friday, must prominently display a valid William Mitchell permit on the back of the rearview mirror or by displaying a valid temporary permit. Any vehicle parked overnight must be registered with the on-duty security officer at the front main desk. The fee for parking is $50 per year (from August 1 through July 31). The permits for the S/G lot are free for first year students and are valid for the S/G lot only. Parking in the other William Mitchell lots with this permit will result in tagging, towing, or both. The Facilities Department maintains a complete list of the permits issued. Permits may only be sold by the college and not offered for resale or exchange between, among, or by individuals. Anyone engaging in such activities will have their permits revoked and may be subject to disciplinary action. You may obtain additional parking permits by providing a copy of the vehicle registration form, license plate number, and picture identification. Under no circumstances is more than one vehicle for each permit holder to be in any of the three lots at the same time.
Limited reserved parking is identified in both William Mitchell lots. Handicap spaces are designated in each lot. In the WMCL/P lot, the following space has been designated: Dean. In the WMCL/V lot the following spaces have been designated: one space reserved for the security vehicle; one space reserved for library staff after 3 p.m.; three designated visitor parking; one faculty and one student PILF auction space; Doug Heidenreich; five Reserved for Adjunct Parking and five Reserved after 4 p.m. for Adjunct Parking. The AOG lot has spaces marked for church visitors. Please do not park in any of the reserved spaces. If you do, you are subject to ticketing and towing. A vehicle occupying a handicapped space must clearly display a handicapped license plate or a window permit issued by the State of Minnesota. Vehicles not displaying the appropriate handicapped plate or permit or displaying the appropriate signage but not being driven by or used for transporting the person to whom the permit is issued are ticketed by the St. Paul Police Department. Fines can exceed $200 and permit privileges can be revoked for inappropriate use of designated handicapped parking. Minnesota state law requires enforcement of handicapped parking spots on a 24 hours per day, 7 day a week basis, including holidays. The college issues parking permits to all regular part-time and full-time faculty and staff. They are valid for each employee’s term of employment at the college. Based on availability, visitors of the college are issued visitor or guest permits at the security desk. These permits must be prominently displayed on the vehicle dashboard while the vehicle is in the lot. Visitors not displaying their guest permits will be subject to towing. Adjunct faculty are given temporary parking permits which are issued each semester. These permits must be displayed prominently by hanging on rear view mirrors. During final exam periods, open parking is permitted. The college occasionally reserves spaces in the WMCL/V lots and WMCL/P lots for Board of Trustee meetings, judges, and special event speakers. These spaces are clearly marked and any vehicles inappropriately parked in these spaces are subject to ticketing and towing. These regulations are subject to change; however, every effort will be made to provide timely notification. Any policy changes, additions, or special instructions will be announced in the Docket and on the Video Messaging System. 21.10.1 Vehicles May Be Towed for the Following Reasons:
1. Parking at any yellow curb or other area designated as a no-parking zone. 2. Unauthorized parking in any reserved spot. 3. Parking in any William Mitchell lot or the AOG lot when the vehicle does not prominently display
a valid college parking permit. If your vehicle is towed, contact Budget Towing, 846 Earl Street, St. Paul (651)771-8817. Budget Towing only accepts cash to retrieve a vehicle and towing/admission costs are a minimum of $250. 21.10.2 Tickets Issued for All Violations are as Follows: First offense: warning; second offense: $15; third offense: $30; fourth offense: $50 and the vehicle is subject to booting/towing, and the permit is revoked for the remainder of the fiscal year. 21.10.3 Parking Lot Security Tips:
1. Lock all doors and close all windows.
2. Don’t leave valuable items in plain sight. 3. Park in well-lit areas. 4. Report crimes or suspicious individuals to security at (651)224-8763 or ext. 330. 5. Report ice or maintenance problems to security at (651)224-8763 or ext. 330. 6. Drive slowly through campus parking lots at a speed of less than 5 miles per hour. 7. Don’t walk alone at night. Call security at (651)224-8763 or ext. 330 for an escort. 8. Emergency call boxes are available at several of the outside perimeter entrance doors.
21.11 Poster and Distribution Policy
The Poster and Distribution Policy is designed to limit the amount of non-student-sponsored literature on campus and to maintain an orderly appearance while reducing maintenance costs (painting, wallpapering, etc.) of campus buildings. Suggestions from students, faculty, and staff on the placement of additional bulletin boards for general use are welcome.
1. Students may post notices concerning college- or student-organization-sponsored events on designated bulletin boards and on the stairwell landing walls. Those groups responsible for posting notices must also remove all postings after the event.
2. Notices or posters will not be allowed on painted, glass, or wallpapered surfaces or on windows
or doors.
3. All notices or posters must clearly identify the author or sponsoring organization. No anonymous materials may be posted or distributed.
4. All posters or notices that are either posted or set out for distribution by organizations not
recognized by the college must be approved by the Office of Student Affairs, Facilities Manager or the Director of facilities prior to posting. Under no circumstances should this material be posted on campus for more than two weeks.
5. Under special circumstances, the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life may temporarily
suspend these rules. The Student Bar Association is responsible for removing unauthorized posters from Hachey Commons. The Maintenance staff is responsible for removing all unauthorized posters from other parts of the building. Organizations and departments of the college are responsible for maintaining their designated bulletin boards.
21.12 Room Reservations The principal purpose of room use at William Mitchell College of Law is support of academic programs. The college has rooms available on a first-come, first-served basis during times not scheduled by the Registrar for academic programs. Students may reserve rooms by contacting the college’s Switchboard Operator at (651) 227-9171. Group study rooms are also available in the Library. Contact the Circulation Desk to reserve a room.
21.13 Weapons Policy 21.13.1 Policy Statement It is our objective to provide an environment free of hazardous or potentially dangerous situations. With that goal in mind, the college maintains a strict policy prohibiting guns and all other weapons, to the
extent permitted by law. This policy applies equally to everyone, whether or not they possess permits to carry guns. The college reserves the right to search and inspect the premises and persons of anyone while in college premises or while engaged in college business off premises, to determine compliance with this policy. 21.13.2 Procedure The college does not allow anyone to carry and/or possess guns or other weapons at any time while in college premises, except that guns (but not other weapons) are permitted in parking areas. For everyone’s safety the college expects that guns stored in vehicles in the college’s parking areas will be kept out of sight, unloaded, and locked in the vehicle. Faculty, staff, and students are also prohibited from carrying and/or possessing guns or other weapons even off college premises when they are acting in the course and scope of their employment or education except as expressly permitted by law. The weapons prohibition applies, but is not limited to times a faculty, staff, or student is:
1. Driving college vehicles for any purpose; 2. Driving privately-owned vehicles used in the course of conducting college business; and 3. Participating in any college-sponsored activity, whether business-related or not.
21.13.3 Definitions For purposes of this policy faculty includes full-time faculty, adjunct professors, visiting professors, or any others serving the college in a teaching capacity. 21.13.4 Disciplinary or Corrective Action If a violation of this policy occurs, timely and appropriate disciplinary or corrective action may be taken as follows:
A faculty or staff member found to have committed a violation of this policy may be subject to a broad range of consequences, up to and including termination of employment. If necessary, a matter will be referred to the appropriate disciplinary authority as required by college policy and by existing agreements with the faculty to determine what corrective action is appropriate.
A student found to have committed a violation of this policy may be subject to a broad range of consequences up to and including expulsion, suspension, or other appropriate action.
The college also prohibits persons other than faculty, staff, and students from carrying and/or possessing guns or other weapons at any time while in college premises. These persons include but are not limited to relatives, independent contractors, visitors, vendors, and all others, excluding on-duty law enforcement officers. 21.13.5 Reporting Faculty, staff, and students are required to report promptly to Security any information relating to any person(s) carrying and/or possessing guns or other weapons in college premises in violation of the policy, or reasonably suspected of doing so.
21.13.6 Questions Any questions about the weapon prohibition policy should be directed to Human Resources or to the Chief Administrative Officer.
21.14 Student Solicitation Policy Any person or organization that wishes to sell to, distribute to, or solicit a response from students is defined under this policy as a solicitor and must confine these activities to Hachey Commons (that does not include the official campus food service provider). Solicitors can only be students, student organizations, or organizations not related to the college whose product or information has a benefit directly related to the academic program of the college. Solicitors must limit activities to tables in the link between Hachey Commons and the 1953 Building. All solicitors must receive prior permission from the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. When more than two solicitors wish to use Hachey Commons at the same time, permission will be given in the following priority: student organizations, students, then other organizations. In rare cases, solicitors may approach students in class, but only with prior approval of the professor teaching the class. All questions about this policy should be directed to the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life.
21.15 Food at Student Organization Sponsored Events Student organizations who intend to serve food at an on-campus event are required to contact the Food Service vendor operating in Hachey Commons. The Food Service vendor (or a catering company working in connection with the Food Service vendor) has a right of first refusal for all on-campus events at which food is served. In the event the Food Service vendor operating in Hachey Commons allows another vendor to provide food at an event, any leftover food is not to be brought to Hachey Commons or adjacent to Hachey Commons at the conclusion of the event.
E. COLLEGE OFFICES AND SERVICES
22. COLLEGE OFFICES & SERVICES
22.1 Administration The President and Dean is the chief academic and administrative officer of the college and has overall responsibility for providing the vision and leadership to improve and maintain the college's stature. The President and Dean is accountable for the outcome of the academic program and strategic plan and the sound financial operations of the college. The Dean plays a leadership role in the college's development efforts and represents the college before its internal and external constituencies, the legal community and the larger community. The President’s Cabinet includes the following positions: Associate Dean for Academic Programs, Associate Dean for Administration, Associate Dean for Information Resources, VP-Finance, VP-Human Resources, VP-Institutional Advancement, Associate Dean of Multicultural Affairs and the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life. The Associate Dean for Academic Programs oversees the faculty’s work in teaching, scholarship, and service, and is the Dean’s designate on most matters of student discipline. The Associate Dean for Administration reviews student requests for permissions related to academic requirements, is responsible for encouraging and supporting curriculum innovation, and works with the Registrar’s office to develop the class schedule. The Associate Dean for Administration oversees Multicultural Student Affairs. The Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life directs the Student Services offices, including the Office of Admissions, Office of the Registrar, Office of Financial Aid, Counseling Services, and Career Development. The Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life also serves as ombudsman and advisor to students. The Deans schedule periodic meetings with students and welcome comments and suggestions at any time.
22.2 Bookstore Room LL45, (651) 290-6334
The William Mitchell Bookstore sells textbooks, study aids, school supplies, candy and snacks, health and beauty aids, as well as imprinted clothing and gifts for adults and children. The bookstore conducts book buyback year round. Hours for the bookstore and other store information can be found under “Store Information” at http://www.bkstr.com/Home/10001-10170-1?demoKey=p
22.3 Career & Professional Development Office The law degree allows many different career options, including public, private, and nonprofit employers, from large to small law firms, and jobs that involve the practice of law as well as non-legal jobs for which a law degree provides additional skills and expertise. Therefore, the goal of the Career & Professional Development Office is to help each student and alumni find employment that is both challenging and rewarding. The Career & Professional Development staff does not match students and graduates with employers. Rather, the Career & Professional Development Office provides services to help students and graduates manage their own career exploration and employment search. This assistance includes:
Programming that provides an insight into career options, employment search skills training (such as interviewing, networking, resume preparation, managing the search process and online
job searching) and opportunities to meet a wide variety of employers, alumni, and other practicing attorneys.
Programming that addresses the needs of both full and part-time students during each year of law school.
Job postings for available part-time and full-time jobs, which are updated daily and are received from a wide variety of employers. Several employers interview on-campus.
One-on-one career counseling sessions. In particular, the Career & Professional Development Office works with the Office of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations to build relationships with William Mitchell alumni in Minnesota and throughout the nation who may be able to provide networking and other career management assistance. More detailed information is available from the Career & Professional Development Office and on its Web page www.wmitchell.edu/careers .
22.4 Copying, Faxing, Mail The Document Services Center (DSC) provides the following services to students:
Printing and Copying – the DSC can print black & white or color up to 11 x 17”, with many finishing options available.
Mail and Shipping – The mailroom is located in room 170 and has mailboxes for full-time and adjunct faculty, staff and student organizations. The DSC also processes outgoing mail through multiple carriers (USPS, UPS, FedEx, Quicksilver Courier Service).
Cash and check are accepted as payment. Please speak with the DSC for more information. Contact: [email protected], 651-290-7523. The DSC is located in room LL74.
22.5 Counseling Services The demands of law school can place stress on individuals, relationships, and work and academic performance. William Mitchell College of Law provides counseling for no initial cost and a $25 co-payment thereafter. This is short term counseling with a maximum of 10 sessions. Students who are not able to pay the $25 co-pay may be able to arrange for a lower cost. Counseling Services can also provide assessments and referrals when appropriate. Discussions are confidential and can be reflective of personal concerns as well as those of an academic nature. Students use Counseling Services for normal life concerns as well as feeling of crisis. The therapists are experienced and licensed professionals, not otherwise connected with William Mitchell College of Law. Counseling Services also provides regular PLP requirements in the Stress Management category such as Stress Management, Time Management, Enhancing Test Performance, and Mental Health/Chemical Dependency issues. Please call (651) 290-8656 for information on scheduling an appointment.
22.6 Services for Students with Disabilities
Students who require classroom or testing accommodation due to a disability should contact the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life, room 119 for assistance.
22.7 The Docket: News for Students
The Docket is a campus newsletter posted on the William Mitchell Web site at (www.wmitchell.edu/theDocket). It contains announcements about classes, College policies and procedures, student events, student job opportunities, financial aid, and more. Students are responsible for information on The Docket and should check it routinely. The Docket accepts submissions only from staff, faculty and recognized student groups. Those wishing to publish notices in The Docket must submit them via the Internet at The Docket site. The College reserves the right to edit submissions. Those who submit information are held accountable for the accuracy of such information published in The Docket.
22.8 Institutional Advancement The office of institutional advancement consists of the offices of alumni relations, development and marketing. Alumni Relations The Alumni Relations team exists to foster productive, informed and engaging relationships between alumni and friends and the law school and its faculty, staff, programs and students. It collaborates with Admissions, Career and Professional Development, Multicultural Affairs and other departments and faculty to offer social, learning, networking and volunteer opportunities for alumni such that they/you will continue to be informed, involved and committed to supporting William Mitchell College of Law. The Annual Fund, overseen by Alumni Relations, gives alumni the opportunity to give back to Mitchell, raising unrestricted funding that enhances the quality of education offered and bridges the gap between the tuition students pay and the actual cost of their law school education. The fund has seen steady growth and increasing participation from alumni. Mitchell currently is a leader among independent and other law schools in alumni participation in giving back. The Alumni Board of Directors works with Alumni Relations to engage alumni in activities, such as an annual golf tournament, Women in Law Tea, continuing learning education programs, (CLE’s), mentoring, online social networking, as well as regional and local alumni gatherings. The Alumni Board of Directors also offers the Student Award of Merit – an award presented to two graduates each year who have demonstrated exemplary work and study – as well as the Warren E. Burger Award and Judge Ronald Hachey Award given annually to alumni who have served the community and the college in exemplary ways. Development The Development team works to raise needed funding for scholarships, faculty, academic programs and other needs. It works with the President and Dean, trustees, faculty, staff, students and alumni to communicate the college’s mission, goals, activities, and needs to a broad constituency that includes alumni, friends, law firms, corporations, and foundations. The Development team oversees the “If Not for Mitchell” Scholarship Drive launched in 2008 to raise endowed scholarships for current and future students, and works in partnership with various department to ensure good stewardship of the generous support given to the college. Marketing The Marketing team publishes the highly regarded William On Law magazine (two issues per year) for alumni and friends of the law school and a monthly online e-newsletter The team maintains the college
Web site and creates publications and other marketing materials for student recruitment, alumni relations, career development, fund raising, faculty, and many other college departments and functions. It works with local and national media to publicize and promote news about events and accomplishments of faculty, students, and the college as a whole.
22.9 Media Services The Media Services (AV) Department is able to secure audio and video copies of all classes. Contact your instructor for permission and ask your instructor to contact the Media Services Department to make arrangements. Please do not ask the college to make arrangements beyond these circumstances: religious holidays, accidents or illnesses that lead to hospitalization. Because of the limited resources and time constraints, the college strongly recommends that students try to make arrangements (audio recording or computer notes) with fellow students.
22.10 Office of Multicultural Affairs At William Mitchell, diversity is vital to our success. We recognize, express, and value differences in order to build a vibrant learning community and an inclusive profession where all individuals feel welcome and respected. William Mitchell College of Law is committed to diversity among students, faculty, and staff. We understand the need for all in the legal system to appreciate the cultural context of different constituencies and work toward eliminating the barriers in the educational and legal systems. That is why we look at multiculturalism and diversity as something that is encouraged and welcomed in our campus and the community. This office is responsible for developing opportunities and encouraging students, faculty, and staff to explore cultural differences and viewpoints. Throughout the year, the office sponsors programs designed to broaden the perspectives of the entire campus community and enhance the legal education environment. For more information see http://web.wmitchell.edu/diversity/multicultural-affairs-office/ .
22.11 Student Services The Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life provides leadership for the following student services offices: Office of Financial Aid, Office of the Registrar, Counseling Services, and Career and Professional Development. Specific responsibilities of the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life include developing and implementing policies and procedures that enhance student life; advancing a student-centered culture; ensuring a climate supportive of students coming from diverse backgrounds; and monitoring and analyzing student academic success. The Dean provides academic counseling to students, and serves as the primary liaison to student organizations. The Dean is also responsible for counseling students; evaluating student service programs; and keeping and analyzing statistics related to student academic success. Student Services seeks to provide students with convenient service and information pertaining to all college matters. Unless otherwise noted, the following forms are available in Room 119:
Address and name changes
Admissions applications and catalogs (Admissions Office)
Directory information waivers
Due-date extensions for course work
Add/drop forms
Employment reports (Career Development Office)
Employment surveys (Career Development Office)
Exam conflict and rescheduling forms
Financial aid applications and brochures (Financial Aid Office)
Good standing letter request form (on-line)
Independent research proposals
Job applications (Career Development office)
Advanced Research and Writing certification forms
LSAT/LSDAS applications (Admissions office)
On-campus interviewing registration (Career Development Office)
Scholarship applications (Financial Aid Office)
Transfer of credit forms (for attendance at other schools)
Transcript request forms
Tuition reimbursement forms
22.12 Switchboard The switchboard is located at the Summit Avenue entrance. Switchboard personnel provide the following services from 8 a.m. until closing:
Parking permits
Access to security 2-way radio
Video message system submissions
Room reservations
Class changes and cancellations
22.13 Warren E. Burger Library Students must follow all library rules as published on the library website or otherwise publicly promulgated. A violation of any library rule is a violation of the Student Conduct Code. For all policies and information pertaining to the Warren E. Burger Library see www.wmitchell.edu/library
F. GENERAL INFORMATION ITEMS
23. STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION
As required by state and federal law, William Mitchell College of Law does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, age or disability in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its educational programs and activities. “Educational programs and activities” includes but is not limited to admission, financial aid, classroom instruction, and disciplinary matters. The Dean of Students is responsible for coordinating the college’s compliance with its Statement of nondiscrimination for students. The Dean of Students is also responsible for coordinating the college’s compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1972, and all applicable laws and regulation prohibiting discrimination in educational programs. For more information, contact:
Dan Thompson Vice President, Student Affairs and Dean of Students [email protected] 651-290-6362 Room 119
Students who feel they have been discriminated against or harassed in violation of the college’s nondiscrimination policy should make a complaint to the Dean of Students. Complaints will be investigated in a prompt, thorough, and impartial manner. Once the investigation is complete, the college will take timely and appropriate corrective action, based on the results of the investigation. Students who feel they have been discriminated against or harassed may also file a complaint under the college’s Non-Discrimination or Sexual Harassment policies.
24. DRUG AND ALCOHOL FREE CAMPUS POLICY
24.1 Introduction William Mitchell College of Law recognizes drug and alcohol abuse among the major health hazards in our society. It further recognizes the debilitating consequences such abuse can inflict upon students, employees, the legal community, and the community at large. It is William Mitchell's desire to maintain a safe, healthy, and productive work place and learning environment for its students, faculty, and staff. The abuse of drugs and alcohol represents a serious threat to an individual's mental, emotional and physical health. Health risks from chemical abuse include drowsiness, disorientation, hallucinations, depression, convulsions, coma and death. Similarly, there are significant health risks associated with the abuse of alcohol. William Mitchell provides assistance and guidance to individuals who need help. Contact the Vice President for Human Resources, the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Life, or Counseling Services (651) 293-0979 to identify appropriate resources.
24.2 Resources Below is a list of low cost drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, rehabilitation or re-entry programs that are available in the area: Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers Court International Building 2550 University Avenue West Saint Paul, MN 55114 651.646.5590 First Call for Help 404 South 8th Street Minneapolis, MN 651.224.1133 Hazelden P.O. Box 11 15245 Pleasant Valley Road Center City, MN 55012-0011 651.213.4000 800.257.7810 Regions Hospital Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs 445 Etna Street, Suite 55 Saint Paul, MN 55106 651.254.4804 Alcoholics Anonymous Suite 407 Spruce Tree Centre 1600 West University Avenue
Saint Paul, MN 55104-3898 651.227.5502
24.3 Policy Statement Federal law requires that, as a condition of receiving funds or any other form of financial assistance under any Federal program, including student financial aid, an institution of higher education must adopt and implement a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees. In addition, federal contractors and federal grant recipients are required to establish and maintain drug-free awareness programs in the workplace. This policy shall be enforced consistent with the rights and responsibilities set forth in the Student Conduct Code (see section 11 of the Student Handbook) and applicable standards and procedures for faculty and staff.
1. No student, faculty, or staff member of William Mitchell College of Law may unlawfully manufacture, dispense, possess, use, or distribute alcohol or illicit drugs on college property or as part of any of its activities. In addition, faculty and staff members are prohibited from reporting for work or from working under the influence of controlled substances. As a condition of employment, employees are required to notify the College of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than 5 days after the conviction.
2. Disciplinary sanctions shall be imposed on students, faculty, and staff who violate A, above. The
application of any disciplinary sanction shall be dependent upon the seriousness of the offense and the presence or absence of mitigating factors.
3. Sanctions for students include, but are not limited to: a. Expulsion from the College. b. Suspension from the College. c. Record of violation entered into student's file, which may, in turn, be reported to the
applicable State Board of Law Examiners. d. Drug or alcohol dependency treatment and counseling as a condition of remaining in or
returning to the College. e. Referral to the State or Federal Government for prosecution.
4. Sanctions for faculty and staff members include, but are not limited to: a. Termination of employment with the College. b. Suspension from employment. c. Record of violation entered into faculty or staff member's file, which may, in turn, be
reported to the applicable Board of Professional Responsibility. d. Drug or alcohol dependency treatment and counseling as a condition of continued
employment. e. Referral to the State or Federal government for prosecution.
24.4 Possible Health Risks of Drug Use/Abuse
24.4.1 Marijuana Possible Signs of Use/Abuse: Increased heart and pulse rate; bloodshot eyes; increased appetite; dryness in the mouth and throat; hallucinations, paranoia or panic; impaired memory; and altered sense of time; and decreased concentration, reaction time, and coordination.
Possible Health Risks of Use/Abuse: Damage to heart, lungs, brain and nerve cells; lung cancer; memory disorders; interference with psychological maturation; temporary loss of fertility in both women and men; psychological dependence; and bronchitis, infections, colds, and other viruses. For pregnant women: premature birth or low birth weights. 24.4.2 Cocaine/crack Possible Signs of Use/Abuse: Euphoria; dilated pupils; narrowing of blood vessels; increased blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and body temperature; decreased appetite; insomnia; runny nose; violent, erratic, or paranoid behavior; sweating; anxiety; and tremors. Possible Health Risks of Use/Abuse: Malnutrition, respiratory problems; addiction; stroke; liver problems; seizures; heart and respiratory failure; psychosis; coma; convulsions; and sexual dysfunction. For users who share or use non-sterile needles to inject cocaine: tetanus, hepatitis, or HIV/AIDS. 24.4.3 Steroids Possible Signs of Use/Abuse: Sudden increase in muscle and weight; increase in aggression and combativeness; violence; hallucinations; depression; jaundice; purple or red spots on body, inside mouth, or nose; swelling of feet or lower legs (edema); tremors; and bad breath. For women: breast reduction, enlarged clitoris, facial hair, baldness, and deepened voice. For men: enlarged nipples and breasts, testicle reduction, enlarged prostate, and baldness. Possible Health Risks of Use/Abuse: High blood pressure; liver and kidney damage; heart disease; increased risk of injury to ligaments and tendons; bowel and urinary problems; gallstones and kidney stones; and liver cancer. For men: impotence, sterility and prostate cancer. For women: menstrual problems and sterility. For users who share or use non-sterile needles to inject steroids; hepatitis, tetanus, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. 24.4.4 Hallucinogens Possible Signs of Use/Abuse: Dilated pupils; increased body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure; sweating; loss of appetite; sleeplessness; dry mouth; tremors; hallucinations; disorientation; confusion, paranoia, violence; euphoria; anxiety; panic, and distorted perception of time, space and reality. Possible Health Risks of Use/Abuse: Liver damage, convulsions; addiction with sever withdrawal symptoms; coma; death due to overdose. 24.4.5 Narcotics Possible Signs of Use/Abuse: Euphoria, restlessness and lack of motivation; drowsiness; lethargy, decreased pulse rate; constricted pupils; flushing (skin appears to be reddish); constipation; nausea and vomiting; needle marks on extremities; skin abscesses at injection; shallow breathing; watery eyes; and itching. Possible Health Risks of Use/Abuse: Pulmonary edema; respiratory arrest; convulsions; addiction; coma; death due to overdose. For users who share or use unsterile needles to inject narcotics: tetanus, hepatitis, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
24.4.6 Stimulants Possible Signs of Use/Abuse: Increased alertness; excessive activity; agitation; euphoria; excitability; increased pulse rate; blood pressure and body temperature; insomnia, loss of appetite; sweating; dry mouth and lips; bad breath; disorientation; apathy; hallucinations; irritability; and nervousness. Possible Health Risks of Use/Abuse: Headaches; depression; malnutrition; hypertension; psychosis; cardiac arrest; damage to the brain and lungs; convulsions; coma; death.
24.5 Penalties 24.5.1 Schedule of Drugs (I-V)
I. Heroin, LSD, mescaline and peyote, amphetamine variants, marijuana, other hallucinogens. II. Opium, morphine, codeine, methadone, cocaine, barbiturates.
III. Anabolic steroids, opium, codeine, methadone, cocaine, barbiturates. IV. Barbiturates, benzodiazepines, chloral hydrates, other narcotics, stimulants, and depressants. V. Opium, codeine, other narcotics and depressants.
24.5.2 Examples of Federal Drug Law Penalties Fines and sentences may be higher than stated below. Always subject to change. Schedule I Drugs (Penalty for possession) First Offense: 10 years to life, 10 year mandatory minimum; if death or serious injury, 20 year minimum; up to $4 million fine individual, $10 million other than individual. Second Offense: 20 years to life, 20 year mandatory minimum; if death or serious injury, not less than life; up to $8 million fine individual, $20 million other than individual. Schedule II Drugs (Penalty for possession) First Offense: 5 to 40 years, 5 year mandatory minimum; if death or serious injury, 20 year minimum; up to $2 million fine individual, $5 million other than individual. Second Offense: 10 years to life, 10 year mandatory minimum; if death or serious injury, not less than life; up to $4 million fine individual, $10 million other than individual. Schedule I or Schedule II Controlled Drugs (Penalty for possession of drugs other than Heroin, LSD, and Fentanyl Analogue) First Offense: 0 to 20 years, if death or serious injury, 20 year minimum, not more than life; up to $1 million fine individual, $5 million other than individual. Second Offense: 0 to 30 years, if death or serious injury, not less than life; up to $2 million fine individual, $10 million other than individual. Schedule III Drugs (Penalty for possession) First Offense: 0 to 5 years, up to $250,000 fine individual, $1 million other than individual. Second Offense: 0 to 10 years; up to $500,000 fine individual, $2 million other than individual. Schedule IV Drugs (Penalty for possession) First Offense: 0 to 3 years, up to $250,000 fine individual, $1 million other than individual. Second Offense: 0 to 6 years, up to $500,000 fine individual, $2 million other than individual.
Schedule V Drugs (Penalty for possession) First Offense: 0 to 1 year, up to $100,000 fine individual, $250,000 other than individual. Second Offense: 0 to 2 years, up to $200,000 fine individual, $500,000 other than individual. 24.5.3 Minnesota Alcohol Violations Fines and sentences may be higher than stated below. Always subject to change.
Driving while intoxicated: $1,000 fine, 90 days in jail, revocation of driver’s license for 30 days, reinstatement fee of $20, retake driver’s license exam – written and behind-the-wheel. Possession by persons under 21: $100 fine. Use of false identification for alcohol purchase: $100 fine. Furnishing alcohol to persons under 21: $3,000 fine and/or 1 year in jail Party Ordinance: $300 fine and/or 90 days in jail.
24.5.4 Examples of Minnesota Drug Laws and Penalties Fines and sentences may be higher than stated below. Always subject to change.
First Degree Sale: 10+ grams of cocaine, 50+ grams of other narcotic drug, 200+ doses hallucinogen, 50 kilos marijuana, or 25+ kilos marijuana in a school zone, park zone, or public housing zone. Possession: 25+ grams cocaine, 500+ grams of other narcotic drug, 500+ doses hallucinogen, 110+ kilos marijuana. Penalty: 0 to 40 years, 4 year mandatory minimum if prior drug felony; up to $1,000,000 fine. 0 to 40 years, 2nd offense. Second Degree Sale: 3+ grams cocaine, 10+ grams of other narcotic drug, 50+ doses hallucinogen, 25+ kilos marijuana, or sale of a Schedule I or II narcotic drug of 5+ doses hallucinogen or methamphetamine either to a person under 18 or in a school zone, park zone, or public housing zone. Possession: 6+ grams cocaine, 50+ grams of other narcotic drug, 100+ doses hallucinogen, 50+ kilos marijuana. Penalty: 0 to 40 years, 3 year mandatory minimum if prior drug felony; up to $500,000 fine. Third Degree
Sale: Narcotic drug, 10+ doses hallucinogen, 5+ kilos marijuana, or sale of any Schedule I, II, or III drug (except a Schedule I or II narcotic drug or marijuana) to a person under 18 or employment of person under 18 to sell the same. Possession: 3+ grams cocaine, 10+ grams of other narcotic drug, 10+ kilos marijuana, and any amount of a Schedule I or II narcotic drug or LSD or methamphetamine or 5+ kilos marijuana in a school zone, park zone, or public housing zone. Penalty: 0 to 30 years, 2 year mandatory minimum if prior drug felony; up to $250,000 fine. 0 to 30 year years, 2nd or subsequent offense. Fourth Degree Sale: Any Schedule I, II or II drug (except marijuana), or sale of marijuana in a school zone, park zone, or public housing zone or any Schedule IV or V drug to a person under 18 or conspiracy for the same. Possession: 10 doses hallucinogen, any amount of a Schedule I, II or III drug (except marijuana) with the intent to sell it. Penalty: 0 to 30 years, 1 year mandatory minimum if prior drug felony; up to $100,000 fine. Fifth Degree Sale: Marijuana, or any Schedule IV drug. Possession: All Schedule I, II, III, IV drugs except 42.5 grams or less of marijuana. Any prescription drugs obtained through false pretenses or forgery. Penalty: 0 to 5 years, 6 month mandatory minimum if prior drug felony; up to $10,000 fine.
24.6 For Your Information
This policy has been developed in compliance with the National Drug Control Strategy. This measure, issued in September 1989, proposed that Congress pass legislation requiring schools, colleges and universities to implement and enforce firm drug prevention and education programs as a condition of eligibility to receive federal financial assistance. On December 12, 1989, the President signed the Drug-Free School and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 which require that institutions of higher education implement a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by its students and employees on school premises or as part of any of its activities.
24.7 Attribution This policy was developed with the assistance of documents created by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities with permission from Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Mike Lopez.
G. APPENDIX 1. Whistleblower Report Form
Instructions:
Submit or mail this form in a sealed envelope addressed to the Vice President of Human Resources, Vice
President of Finance, or the President & Dean, William Mitchell College of Law, 875 Summit Avenue, St.
Paul, Minnesota, 55105
Person reporting observed or suspected misconduct (You may submit this form anonymously. .
However, it should be understood that any investigation may be hampered or be impracticable if the
Reporting Person cannot be identified and questioned about the incident and related facts.)
Name: Email Address:
Phone Number:
Relationship to the College:
(please indicate faculty, staff, student, etc.)
Person against whom the report of observed or suspect misconduct is being made (please complete as
thoroughly as possible):
Name: Title: ___________________
Department: Phone Number: ______
Please include specific facts and any documentation you have, as well as the names of any individuals
with whom you have discussed your concerns. Use the back of this form or attach additional sheets to
fully describe the observed or suspected misconduct.
2. Academic Support Initiative
Academic Support Initiative (updated July 2013) In April 2010 the Faculty approved an Academic Support Initiative that mandates specific requirements for certain WMCL students. The initiative is intended to enhance the law school experience, improve preparation for the bar exam, and support the transition to the practice of law for the identified students. The following is a detailed description of the requirements of effected students. Questions about these changes can be directed to Anne Moelk, Assistant Director of Student Affairs and Student Life. You may contact Ms. Moelk at 651.290.6397 or at [email protected]).
Group A4 Group B
Requirement
Students ranked in the 15
th percentile
5 and
lower @ end of First Year
Students ranked between the 16
th
percentile6 and the 25
th
percentile @ end of First Year
Legal Reasoning Workshop II (LRW2): Students must take LRW2 in the fall semester of their second year. LRW2 is a one-credit course that focuses on the performance of legal analysis and on strategies for preparing for and taking law school exams. LRW2 is taught in conjunction with Constitutional Law–Powers. The course involves weekly reading and writing assignments, small-group work, and one-on-one meetings with the instructor. LRW2 is open to all students provided space is available. The Registrar will register and assign students who are required to take LRW2 to a LRW2 section in the fall of the second year.
Recommended if space is available7
Bar Preparation Strategies Course (BPS): must be taken in the final year of law school. BPS is a two-credit course designed to help students strengthen the skills necessary to succeed on the bar exam and to give students a head start on the bar-preparation process. This is a "learn-by-doing" course that requires preparation for and active participation in class. Students will have weekly reading and writing assignments. Because the course focuses
Recommended
4 In addition to these requirements, those students in Group A who are on probation must achieve a cumulative
GPA of 2.0 within two semesters of being placed on probation. See §3.2 of the student handbook for more
information.
5 Students at the 15
th percentile and below after first year, regardless of the number of credits, as measured by
cumulative GPA.
6 Students between the 16
th and the 25
th percentile after first year, regardless of the number of credits, based on
cumulative GPA.
7 If interested, contact [email protected].
mostly on skills and covers only two of the thirteen bar-tested subjects, it is not a substitute for commercial bar-preparation courses like BarBri or PMBR. For a full course description see
http://web.wmitchell.edu/students/curriculum-courses/
Additional Required Courses: Students ranked at the 25th
percentile and below after first year are required to take some courses in addition to the courses that are required of all students. The exact courses (and the number of courses) have yet to be determined because the Minnesota bar exam has recently altered its list of tested subjects. We anticipate Criminal Law, Constitutional Criminal Procedure, Evidence, and Estates and Trusts to be among the courses that will be required. We will communicate the precise requirement prior to registration for Spring 2014.
Academic Advising: Students must (Group A) or are encouraged (Group B) to schedule an academic advising appointment with the Office of Student Affairs before registering for the Spring semester of the second year of law school. Appointments may be made at any time prior to registration. Contact
[email protected] to schedule an appointment.
Recommended
3. Sexual Harassment, Harassment and Discrimination, and Sexual Violence
Policy
It is the policy of the William Mitchell College of Law (the “College”) to maintain a learning environment
that is free from sexual harassment, harassment, discrimination or sexual violence based on actual or
perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex/gender, marital status, disability, status with
regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, age, family care leave status or veteran status or any
other protected class defined by law. The College prohibits any form of harassment, violence or
discrimination based on actual or perceived protected class status. Retaliation against a person who
reports or complains about sexual harassment, harassment, discrimination, or sexual violence or who
participates in or supports the investigation of a complaint is also prohibited and will not be tolerated.
It will be a violation of this policy for any student, faculty member or staff member to (1) harass a
student through conduct or communication (e.g., physical, verbal, graphic or written) or to (2)
discriminate against a student based on that individual’s actual or perceived protected class status; or to
(3) inflict, threaten to inflict or attempt to inflict violence.
This policy applies to all of the academic and nonacademic (extracurricular) programs of the College and
will be enforced on College property, including the College hosted social functions, or events sponsored
by the College but held at other locations. The policy also applies to any off-campus conduct that causes
or threatens to cause a substantial and material disruption at the College, or interferes with the rights of
students to be free from a hostile learning environment taking into consideration the totality of the
circumstances on and off campus.
The College will investigate all complaints of sexual harassment, harassment, discrimination, or sexual
violence—whether formal or informal, verbal or written—based on a student’s actual or perceived
protected class status, and will discipline or take appropriate action against any student who is found to
have violated this policy. Follow-up will be provided for complainant and respondents of sexual
harassment, harassment, discrimination, or sexual violence.
I. DEFINITIONS
A. Sexual Harassment is unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: 1. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of
education, or 2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for educational decisions affecting
the individual, or 3. Such conduct unreasonably interferes with an individual's educational performance, or creates
an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment.
Some examples of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment include the following:
1. Repeated and unwelcome suggestions regarding, or invitations to, social engagements or social
events; or 2. Any indication, express or implied, that any aspect of academic progress or personal safety
depends or may depend on the granting of sexual favors or on a willingness to accept or tolerate conduct or communication of a sexual nature; or
3. Unwelcome or coerced physical proximity or physical contact which is of a sexual nature or sexually motivated; or
4. The deliberate use of offensive or demeaning terms which have a sexual connotation; or 5. The deliberate creation of an intimidating, hostile or offensive atmosphere, through conduct or
communication of a sexual nature; or 6. Inappropriate remarks of a sexual nature.
B. Discrimination occurs when an individual is treated adversely or differently because of that
person's race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation,
status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, or any other
protected class status defined by applicable law. Harassment includes conduct that denigrates or shows
hostility or aversion toward an individual because of his or her race, color, creed, religion, sex, age,
national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance,
membership or activity in a local commission, or any other protected class status defined by applicable
law and that:
1. Has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment; or
2. Has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's educational performance; or
3. Otherwise adversely affects an individual's educational opportunities.
Some examples of conduct that may constitute discrimination or harassment include the following:
1. Treating an individual differently in any other respect because of protected class status; or
2. Using epithets, slurs, threatening or intimidating acts, including written or graphic material
directed to an individual because of protected class status; or
3. Written, verbal or physical acts directed to an individual because of protected class status that
purport to be jokes or pranks.
C. Sexual violence is defined as a violation of Minnesota Criminal Sexual Conduct Statutes and may include a range of sexual conduct, including but not limited to acquaintance rape, or other forcible or non-forcible sex offenses. In general, sexual violence means sexual contact achieved without consent or
with the use of physical force, coercion, deception, threat, and/or the victim is mentally incapacitated or impaired, physically impaired (due to the influence of drugs or alcohol), or asleep or unconscious. Sexual violence can occur between different sexes or same sex individuals.
II. REPORTING PROCEDURES FOR INCIDENTS OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT, HARASSMENT, AND/OR
DISCRIMINATION (please see Section III for reporting Sexual Violence)
A. If a student believes that he or she has been subject to sexual harassment, harassment or
discrimination by another student, faculty member, staff member or any other person whom the
student encounters in the course of education, he or she may report the conduct as set out below. If a
student observes sexual harassment, harassment, or discrimination he or she may report the conduct to
the following:
Dan Thompson, Title IX Coordinator and Vice President of Student Affairs & Dean of Students, (651)
290-6362, or Human Resources, any Associate Dean or the President & Dean. Any College
employee who receives a report or complaint of sexual harassment, harassment, or discrimination
regarding a student is required to immediately report it to the Vice President of Student Affairs &
Dean of Students.
If complaints are made to anyone else, the complainant risks the possibility that it will not come to
the attention of the appropriate management, and therefore not be acted upon.
As necessary, the College reserves the right to initiate a complaint, to serve as complainant, and to
initiate conduct proceedings without a formal complaint by the victim or complainant.
B. The willful filing of a false report will be considered to be a violation of College policy.
C. Although confidentiality cannot be assured, the College will respect the privacy of the alleged
complainant, the reporter (if someone other than the alleged complainant), the individual(s) against
whom the complaint is filed, and the witnesses as much as possible, consistent with the College’s
obligations to investigate, to take appropriate action, and to conform with any legal obligations.
III. REPORTING PROCEDURES FOR INCIDENTS OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE
A. Reporting Complaints
1. We encourage victims of sexual violence to seek immediate medical and emotional assistance. Assistance is available by calling 911, the Saint Paul Police (651-291-1111), William Mitchell Campus Security (651-290-6330 or 651-224-8763), and/or Regions Hospital (651-254-5000). College security staff responding to an incident of sexual violence will inform the victim of the options to notify law enforcement authorities, seek medical assistance, and the college’s reporting process; and security staff will assist the victim with these contacts if the victim requests such assistance.
It is important for victims to preserve any evidence resulting from a sexual violence which would be needed for criminal prosecution. Campus security will provide assistance in preserving materials considered relevant to the internal complaint process and, when requested by the police, provide assistance in obtaining, securing and maintaining evidence needed for criminal prosecution.
The victim may report to the police, to the college, or both. The College recognizes that the decision to report sexual violence to the police is the right of the victim. However, the College strongly encourages the immediate reporting of sexual violence to the following:
Dan Thompson, Title IX Coordinator and Vice President of Student Affairs & Dean of
Students, (651) 290-6362, or Human Resources, any Associate Dean or the President &
Dean. Any College employee who receives a report or complaint of should immediately
report it to Vice President of Student Affairs & Dean of Students.
If complaints are made to anyone else, the complainant risks the possibility that it will not come
to the attention of the appropriate management, and therefore not be acted upon.
As necessary, the College reserves the right to initiate a complaint, to serve as complainant, and
to initiate conduct proceedings without a formal complaint by the victim or complainant.
2. Although confidentiality cannot be assured, investigations will be conducted with sensitivity to confidential issues and investigative information will be communicated as appropriate to those with a need to know.
3. If the sexual violence reoccurs, it should immediately be reported to any of the individuals listed above. The Reporting Procedure described above should also be used if a student believes he or she has been subjected to prohibited retaliation or intimidation.
4. An individual may pursue criminal action and a College internal complaint concurrently. However, the College shall have the right to reasonably delay a disciplinary proceeding because of civil or criminal proceedings outside the College.
B. Resources
Victims may wish to utilize the following services:
College Resources: Counseling Services (651) 290-8656 Off Campus Resources: Ramsey County Sexual Offense Services (651) 643-3006 Please Note: This is a 24-hour crisis line
Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers
(651) 646-5590 or 1-866-525-6466
IV. INVESTIGATION
A. Upon receipt of a report or complaint, the College will promptly undertake or authorize an
investigation. The investigation may be conducted by (a) the Dean or the Dean’s designee(s), or (b)
an individual who is not an employee of the College, retained by the College for the purpose of
conducting an investigation “Consultant”, or (c) a combination of the above.
B. The investigation will generally be completed within 60 calendar days from receipt of the complaint.
C. The investigation may, as appropriate, consist of personal interviews with the alleged complainant,
the reporter (if someone other than the alleged complainant), the individual(s) against whom the
complaint is filed, and others who may have knowledge of the alleged incident(s) or circumstances
giving rise to the complaint. The investigation may also consist of any other methods and documents
deemed pertinent by the investigator.
D. In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes a violation of this policy the College may
consider the facts and surrounding circumstances, the nature of the behavior, past incidents or past
or continuing patterns of behavior, the relationships between the parties involved and the context
in which the alleged incidents occurred. Whether a particular action or incident constitutes a
violation of this policy requires a determination based on all the facts and surrounding
circumstances using a preponderance of the evidence standard to evaluate complaints.
E. The College, at its discretion, may take immediate steps, based on the severity of the allegations, to
protect the parties involved in the complaint process pending completion of an investigation.
F. To ensure the College can gather the information necessary to uphold College policies, each faculty,
staff, or student who is requested to participate in a fact finding is required to fully cooperate with
the investigator. Unless otherwise directed by the investigator, faculty, students or staff will be
expected to limit their discussion of the matter under investigation to those who need to know the
information for the purposes of assisting in the resolution of the complaint.
V. COLLEGE ACTION
A. Upon completion of the investigation, the investigator will make a report to the Dean. If the
complaint involves the Dean, the report must be filed directly with the Board of Trustees.
B. Upon completion of the investigation, the Dean or Dean’s designee will inform the alleged
complainant and respondent of the results of the investigation.
C. If a complaint is substantiated, the College will take appropriate and effective action depending on
the circumstances. Such action may include, but is not limited to, training, counseling, suspension,
expulsion, or other appropriate action.
VI. COLLEGE REPORTING OBLIGATIONS:
Victims of sex discrimination should also be aware that College administrators must issue timely
warnings for certain types of incidents reported to them that pose a substantial threat of bodily
harm or danger to members of the campus community under Federal “Clery” law. The College will
make every effort to ensure that a victim’s name and other identifying information is not disclosed,
while still providing enough information for community members to make safety decisions in light of
the danger.
The College is required by federal law to report statistics regarding incidents of sexual violence.
Annually the College reports such statistics to students, faculty, and staff.
VII. COOPERATION WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT
The College will comply with law enforcement request for cooperation and such cooperation may
require the College to temporarily suspend the fact-finding aspect of a Title IX investigation while
the law enforcement agency is in the process of gathering evidence. The College will promptly
resume its Title IX investigation as soon as notified by the law enforcement agency that it has
completed the evidence gathering process, which typically takes three to ten calendar days,
although the delay in the College’s investigation may be longer in certain instances.
The College will implement appropriate interim steps during the law enforcement agency’s
investigation period to provide for the safety of the victim(s) and the campus community and the
avoidance of retaliation.
VIII. ATTEMPTED VIOLATIONS
In most circumstances, the College will treat attempts to commit any of the violations listed in this
policy as if those attempts had been completed.
IX. NO REPRISAL
There will be no retaliation against any complainant or reporter of sexual harassment, harassment,
discrimination or sexual violence under this policy, nor against any person who participates in an
investigation. The College will take appropriate action against any student who retaliates against any
person who makes a good faith report, who testifies, assists or participates in an investigation, or
who testifies, assists or participates in a process relating to the report. Retaliation includes, but is
not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment.
X. CONFLICT OF INTEREST
If there is a conflict of interest with respect to any party affected by this policy, appropriate
accommodations will be made, such as, but not limited to, appointing or contracting with a
Consultant to conduct the investigation, or recusing the person from the process for whom a conflict
or potential conflict of interest exists.
XI. ALTERNATIVE COMPLAINT PROCEDURES
These procedures do not deny the right of any individual to pursue other avenues of recourse which
may include filing a charge with the United States Department of Education Office for Civil Rights
(OCR).
The OCR office for Minnesota is located at:
U.S. Department of Education
Office for Civil Rights
Citigroup Center
500 W. Madison Street, Suite 1475
Chicago IL 60661-4544
Tel: 312.730.1560
TDD: 877.521.2172
Email: [email protected]