GWINNETT COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD DISCIPLINARY PANEL HEARINGS

We represent Gwinnett students who are required to appear before Gwinnett County School Board Disciplinary Panel Hearings.

Students who have been accused of committing crimes on school grounds or at school activities, or of committing violations of certain school rules, may be referred to appear before a Gwinnett County School Board Disciplinary Panel.   The Panel will determine what actions are to be taken by the school board in regard to the student.   These actions can include suspension, referral to special schools, or expulsion in addition to other actions.

The hearings essentially consist of two phases.   The first phase is to determine whether the student has committed a violation of school rules.   And, if it is determined that there has been a violation, the second phase is to determine what action should be taken by the school board.

The Panel will typically consist of three teachers chosen from other schools within the County.   The student should be accompanied by his or her parents or guardian.

The student has the right to be represented by an attorney when appearing before the Panel.  

QUESTION:   Should a student appearing before a Disciplinary Panel have an attorney with him or her?   In my opinion, yes.   Anytime a child faces an allegation that is so serious that criminal charges have been brought or he/she is otherwise facing serious consequences such as expulsion from school, an attorney should be consulted.

QUESTION:   How can an attorney help?   The attorney can help during both phases of the hearing.   First, the attorney can help prepare a defense to the allegations and to defend the child during the hearing.   And second, an attorney can help present evidence in mitigation if it is found that a violation has occurred.

QUESTION:  Does the law firm of Giannini & Spence offer free consultations in regard to Disciplinary Panel Hearings?  Yes, absolutely.  Call us for a free consultation.