Student Judicial Council

The Student Judicial Council (SJC) was created by authority of the faculty of Washington and Lee to promote the notion of individual responsibility.

The SJC investigates and acts upon complaints of alleged student misconduct, except for dishonorable acts that involve the general categories of lying, cheating, stealing, or other breaches of trust (which are under the jurisdiction of the Executive Committee); or acts that involve discrimination, harassment, retaliation, sexual misconduct (which are under the jurisdiction of the Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Board); or hazing, retaliation associated with hazing, or other violations of University policy by a fraternity under the jurisdiction of Interfraternity Council. The Student Judicial Council's jurisdiction extends to all conduct committed while a member of the Washington and Lee community, including but not limited to study abroad programs, pre-orientation, pre-season athletic practices, campus summer programs and camps, and summer research programs. Students who return to Lexington or Rockbridge County for the purpose of enrolling in classes, even if they do not reside in University housing, are under the jurisdiction of the SJC as well as the other University conduct systems. The SJC is designed to affirm the student's obligation to individual responsibility and to see that obligation fulfilled.

The SJC believes that honorable behavior is a University Community Standard (“Standard”) that must be upheld. Students are bound to this Standard just as they are bound to the Honor System. Any person who believes a student has deviated from this Standard may bring a complaint to the SJC. Violations of the Standard are not limited to findings or convictions of criminal conduct, except those expressly tied to criminal convictions. Violations of the Standard include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Any conduct disruptive to the life of the University, other universities and colleges or the surrounding community
  • Violations of residence hall regulations or other University policies or regulations
  • Vandalism or destruction of property
  • Actions which endanger person or property
  • Violations of the University Policy on Alcohol and Other Drugs for Individuals
  • Hazing by individuals or by organizations not under the jurisdiction of the IFC
  • Conduct unbecoming of a Washington and Lee student
  • A history or pattern of student misconduct

NOTE: Voluntary intoxication shall not excuse any misconduct. Intoxication means impairment by alcohol or other substances. Addiction shall not excuse possessing, possessing with intent to distribute, or distributing any drug.