California
Freedom of Speech & Social Media Violations Lawyers
All students have fundamental First Amendment rights to freedom of speech, even within the educational environment. However, many schools have codes of conduct that must be followed in order to maintain their enrollment in the institution. Violating these codes of conduct could result in suspension or expulsion from the school. Even something as simple as a social media post could be considered a violation of the student conduct codes.
The Hahn Legal Group understands how detrimental being punished for expressing your freedom of speech can be to your future. Our experienced California education lawyers can leverage our extensive knowledge of education law and school policies to provide you with the information you need to help clear your name and make sure your future is not compromised.
Do not let a social media post impede your future career. Call today.
Our California Freedom of Speech & Social Media Violations Services
While students generally possess free speech rights, California schools can regulate certain aspects of the expression of their speech when it disrupts the learning environment or violates specific rules within their code of conduct.
Social media posts, even those made outside of school hours, can fall under the school’s authority if they have a direct impact on the school community.
Some examples may include:
- Threats of violence or harassment toward a student, teacher, or other school official
- Creating social media profiles to impersonate another student
- Cyberbullying
If a student’s social media post is deemed a violation of the school’s code of conduct, they could face a range of disciplinary actions. These can vary in severity depending on factors like the nature of the post, its impact on the school community, and any previous infractions.
Some of the common penalties can include:
- Detention or suspension
- Loss of privileges including restrictions on participation in extracurricular activities, field trips, or other school-related events
- Mandatory counseling to address any underlying issues
- Expulsion in extreme cases, particularly with repeated or severe offenses
- Legal consequences if the post involves illegal activity like threats or harassment
If you believe your social media posts have been unfairly penalized by your school or if you are unsure of your rights concerning online expression, the experienced attorneys at The Hahn Legal Group are here to help. We understand the delicate balance between free speech and maintaining a safe learning environment. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring you are treated fairly.
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“My autistic son was falsely accused of harassment by a fellow student at the university he graduated from in 2024. Adrienne and her firm represented my son in this matter. He was completely exonerated at the university level of all allegations brought against him. In addition, The Hahn Legal Group was successful in quashing a temporary restraining order obtained under false pretenses. We could not be happier with the results obtained, stemming from an exemplary level of service provided by Adrienne and her team.”
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Our California Freedom of Speech & Social Media Violations Case Process
STEP TWO:
We will take a look at the details of your issue and determine whether we are a good fit.
STEP THREE:
If we decide to work together, we will do everything in our power to get you the results you want and the future you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my social media post fall under protected free speech?
Whether your social media post falls under protected free speech depends on several factors. While you have a general right to express yourself, certain types of speech, such as threats, harassment, or speech promoting illegal activity, are not protected. Schools have a duty to maintain a safe learning environment. They can create reasonable rules regarding student conduct (including social media use) as long as these rules do not violate students’ constitutional rights.
Can the school punish me for something I posted off-campus and outside of school hours?
In certain circumstances, schools can punish students for something posted off-campus and outside of school hours. While students generally have broader free speech rights when not on school grounds, schools can intervene if the online activity includes threats of violence, harassment, bullying, or other speech that interferes with the school’s ability to provide a safe learning environment.
What are the potential consequences if I am found responsible for violating the code of conduct through my social media posts?
If you are found responsible for violating the school’s code of conduct due to a social media post, the potential consequences can range from warnings to more severe actions like expulsion or even legal action.
What are my options for defending myself against these accusations?
If you are accused of violating your school’s code of conduct due to a social media post, you have several options to defend yourself and make sure this does not derail your future. It is best to consult a California student defense attorney with experience in this type of law to help you determine your options.
If I am punished, can I appeal the decision?
If you are punished for a social media post that allegedly violates your school’s code of conduct, you typically have the right to appeal the decision. Most schools and universities have established procedures for appealing disciplinary actions. Contact an attorney experienced in student defense that can help you look into your options.
Contact Us To Discuss Your California Freedom of Speech & Social Media Violations Case
If you’ve been accused of violating your school’s code of conduct over a freedom of speech issue, contact The Hahn Legal Group to discuss your options. Our dedicated legal team can help you discuss your options so that a social media post does not derail your future!
Call 310-742-1430
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