It is not uncommon for schools to suspend or expel students to the (Disciplinary Alternative Education Program) DAEP or JJAEP ( Juvenile Justive Alternative Education Program) without affording them a fair opportunity to present their version of events

In many instances, schools rush to judgment, hastily leading to a child’s expulsion even before the school administrators have concluded their investigation. Parents are often left scrambling because of the surprise allegation and school administrators rush to schedule expulsion hearings without regard for the parents’ schedule or understanding of the process.

Students are therefore deprived of genuine due process, This lack of due process is regrettably very common particularly for parents who do not have legal representation.

In some cases, parents are invited to just “meet” with the Assistant Principal to address and potentially resolve allegations against their child.

However, these meetings can bring unwelcome surprises as parents discover that their child is facing severe consequences, such as expulsion to the DAEP/JJAEP for an extended period ranging from 30 to 40 school days or in more severe cases, expulsion for an extended duration.

Common Reason for Suspensions and Expulsions

We have a proven track record of successfully representing numerous students and parents in K-12 public schools, charter schools, and private schools in Texas. Our efforts have been instrumental in preventing unnecessary suspensions and expulsions, ensuring fair outcomes for our clients in cases such as;

1. Bullying and Cyberbullying
2. Terroristic Threat
3. Assault on a Student or School Employee
4. Smoking or Vaping on Campus
5. Public Display of Affection
6. Title IX ( Sexual Harassment) Accusations
7. Fights and Mutual Combat
8. Academic Integrity Hearings, e.g., Cheating, Plagiarism
9. Disruptive Conducts

 What to do When Your Child is Accused of a Conduct Violation

• Consult with an Education Attorney: Consult with an education attorney as soon as possible to understand your rights and navigate the disciplinary process effectively.
• Understand the Allegations: Take the time to grasp the details of the alleged conduct violation, ensuring clarity on the specific charges and especially whether criminal charges could be brought against your child.
• Gather Information: Gather any relevant information, documents, or witness statements that can support your child’s case.
• Attend Meetings with School Officials with an Attorney: Make sure to engage an attorney to accompany you to any scheduled meetings with school officials.
• Review School Policies: Familiarize yourself with school policies and the Texas Education Code. Understand the school’s code of conduct and disciplinary procedures to be well-informed about the process.
• Maintain Professionalism: Remain calm and professional. Encourage your child to maintain composure and professionalism throughout the process.
• Explore Appeal Options: Consider appealing an unfavorable outcome with the guidance of an education attorney.

What NOT  to do When Your Child is Accused of a Conduct Violation

• Do Not Ignore the Accusations: Take the matter seriously and address it promptly by engaging an education attorney as soon as possible to avoid potential escalation.
• Do Not Confront Accusers Directly: Avoid personal confrontations, and instead, let the legal process unfold with the guidance of an attorney.
• Do Not Sign Documents Without Legal Advice: Refrain from signing any forms or statements without consulting your education attorney to avoid unintended consequences.
• Do Not Discuss the Case Without Guidance: Don’t discuss the case without guidance: Limit discussions about the case to those directly involved and follow the advice of your attorney on what to communicate.
• Do Not Assume Guilt: Your child is innocent until proven otherwise. Allow the legal process to determine the outcome without prejudging.
• Do Not Delay Legal Assistance: Time is of the essence; involve an education attorney early in the process to ensure a comprehensive and timely defense.

We understand that you are nervous about the allegations against your child but there is hope!  We can help!