My child was suspended and detained by college… seeking advice on next steps

Education Law Forum
1

Hi all, I’m reaching out for advice because my child has been suspended and detained by her college, and I’m struggling to figure out what to do next. It feels like this was done without proper justification, and I’m trying to get her out of detention first and foremost.

I’d like to understand if there are any steps I can take immediately, and if there’s a way to challenge the suspension and detention formally. I’m prepared to pursue legal options if necessary but could really use guidance from anyone who’s been through something similar.

2

That sounds really rough. Did the college provide any specific reason for the detention and suspension?

3

Yan said:
That sounds really rough. Did the college provide any specific reason for the detention and suspension?

Not much detail yet, they mentioned something vague about a ‘phone incident’ but nothing clear.

4

@Paz
Hmm, sounds fishy. You might want to request written documentation so you have a record of their reasoning.

5

If you haven’t gotten anything in writing, I’d suggest making a formal request for it. That way, you can better understand what they’re basing their actions on.

6

Nolan said:
If you haven’t gotten anything in writing, I’d suggest making a formal request for it. That way, you can better understand what they’re basing their actions on.

Good idea! I think I’ll start with that on Monday.

7

@Paz
Absolutely. Having documentation will help if you decide to take it further.

8

If you’re thinking about legal action, you could also look into filing a habeas corpus petition. It’s basically a way to challenge an unlawful detention.

9

Briar said:
If you’re thinking about legal action, you could also look into filing a habeas corpus petition. It’s basically a way to challenge an unlawful detention.

Interesting… I hadn’t thought of that. Do you know if it’s a complicated process?

10

@Paz
It’s usually best done with an attorney’s help, but it could definitely make a difference if there’s no real basis for detention.

11

It might be worth getting a local attorney involved. They can help you file a formal complaint with the school and make sure everything’s done by the book.

12

Jaden said:
It might be worth getting a local attorney involved. They can help you file a formal complaint with the school and make sure everything’s done by the book.

Thanks, I think reaching out to an attorney could be the best way forward if the college doesn’t cooperate.

13

@Paz
Agreed. Better to have legal support to keep the pressure on and protect your child’s rights.

14

If this suspension and detention happened with little reason, you should also consider talking to the college’s administration about an immediate meeting to go over what led to their decision.

15

Ellis said:
If this suspension and detention happened with little reason, you should also consider talking to the college’s administration about an immediate meeting to go over what led to their decision.

Good idea! I’ll try to set something up on Monday if they’re willing to meet.

16

@Paz
Hopefully they’ll be open to discussing it. It’s hard to justify these actions without giving you the full story.