Judicial Affairs Office

The City University of New York takes the well-being and safety of our students, staff, and faculty very seriously. During the pandemic, we all have an obligation to behave in a responsible manner per the guidance approved in the campus’ re-opening plan to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Responsible behavior extends to your off-campus and personal lives, which can affect your ability to transmit the virus on campus, including at a minimum.

Article XV of the CUNY bylaws requires that each student obey policies, regulations, and orders of the university/college. Students are reminded that the Rules and Regulations for the Maintenance of Public order pursuant to article 129a of the education law (“Henderson Rules”) prohibits:

  • behavior that recklessly or intentionally endangers the health of others,
  • behavior that interferes with the institution’s educational processes, and
  • failure to comply with the direction of a university official.

The university is committed to adhering fully to current and future directives about social encounters from the federal, state, and local public health officials.  Any student found in violation of these directives may be subject to discipline under Article XV of the CUNY Bylaws.

Hours

We are available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (except holidays).

Mission

The Office of Judicial Affairs works collaboratively with the campus community to guide students to act responsibly and educate them about the university’s policies.

What We Do

The Office of Judicial Affairs is responsible for investigating and addressing complaints and concerns about student behavior. The student disciplinary process, outlined in the CUNY Bylaws, Article XV, is used to investigate alleged violations of the Rules and Regulations for the Maintenance of Public Order and other college policies.

Visit policies for a comprehensive list of Brooklyn College and CUNY policies, including Title IX—Combating Sexual Assault and Unwelcomed Sexual Behavior. We encourage you to review our Judicial Affairs Brochure and other resources located on the right-hand side of this webpage.

Note: Alleged Title IX or sexual misconduct violations will be investigated by the college’s Title IX coordinator.

Student Responsibilities

All Brooklyn College students are expected to abide by all of the college’s and CUNY’s policies, rules, and regulations while on and off campus. Failure to abide by any of these rules may lead to disciplinary action.

In line with the college’s mission statement, vision, and values, the Office of Judicial Affairs strongly encourages students to follow these standards of behavior:

  • Lead responsibly.
  • Act ethically.
  • Engage in civil dialogue and respectful interaction.
  • Guide your conduct with respect and accountability.

Behavioral Education and Support Team at Brooklyn College

The Brooklyn College Behavioral Education and Support Team (BEST) seeks to promote a civil campus environment and support students who may be in distress. Our work includes communication, collaboration, education, and prevention with respect to behaviors of concern while protecting the privacy and the rights of the individuals involved.

Do’s and Don’ts for Faculty and Staff

Faculty and staff are encouraged to review the Do’s and Don’ts For Faculty and Staff when addressing challenging student behavior as well as How to Identify, Assist, and Refer Students with Personal Problems and/or Disruptive Behavior.

How to Make a Report

Students, staff, or faculty who have a complaint or concern about a student should complete a Student Behavior Form. If you have any further documentation to submit, attach copies to your submission. This form is available at the below links.

Note: For safety concerns or urgent/threatening incidents, immediately contact the Office of Public Safety, 718.951.5511.

Academic Integrity

Faculty members who suspect or have confirmed, upon investigation, that a violation of the CUNY Policy on Academic Integrity has occurred are required to report the violation by completing and submitting a Faculty Action Report (FAR) Form (PDF) to the academic integrity official. For guidance and tips on preventing academic dishonesty, students can refer to “Preventing Academic Dishonesty in Remote Learning.”

Dean’s Certification Forms

Dean’s Certification Forms are used to check students’ disciplinary record and are often required by colleges and prospective employers as part of their application process. These forms (often titled Dean’s Certification, Credentials, or Disciplinary Clearance) are obtained from the college or employer to which you are applying.

In order to ensure timely completion of your form, it is strongly advised that you submit the request a minimum of 10 business days before you will need to have the certification ready. Send your request and forms to us via e-mail. Completed forms will be sent out by e-mail. Dean’s Certification Forms are not letters of good academic standing or letters of recommendation; they deal only with disciplinary issues.

FAQ

As a student, how will I know if I have to meet with Judicial Affairs?

A notice is sent to the student’s preferred e-mail address as listed in CUNYfirst. The student may also receive a letter in the mail or a phone call.

As a complainant, can I remain anonymous?

On the Student Behavior Form, there is an option stating, “I would like to remain anonymous.” However, it depends on the case. A Judicial Affairs representative will discuss this with the complainant to determine if anonymity is possible and to what extent.

As a student who got reported, will the college tell my parents?

No. Students’ disciplinary records are protected by FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). However, if a student has submitted a FERPA Release Form to the Enrollment Services Center, then we are able to share the student’s disciplinary record with whomever was named on the FERPA Release Form.

What if I have a complaint about a Staff or faculty member, not a student?

The Office of Judicial Affairs investigates complaints about students only. However, if someone has a complaint about a staff or faculty member, a Student Affairs representative can provide guidance and refer the complainant to the appropriate office.

Brooklyn. All in.