Serving as a Witness

Under the Student Judicial Charter of 1997, witnesses can play a signficant role in the student judicial process at Stanford.

Witnesses may or may not be Stanford students, staff or faculty, and they may be called on to offer testimony -- either in writing or in person, or both -- against or on behalf of a student who is alleged to have violated the Honor Code or Fundamental Standard.

Witnesses possess the right to: (1) refuse to engage in self-incrimination; (2) be offered reasonable protection from retaliation, intimidation and/or harassment; and (3) be informed, in writing, of their rights.

Presentation of all witness testimony, as well as of all evidence, is to be conducted in a manner that is courteous to all participants, devoid of intimidation and harassment and relevant to the facts and issues involved.

Note: Two By-laws to the Student Judicial Charter of 1997 that are relevant to service as a witness have been passed by the Board on Judicial Affairs (BJA) and are now awaiting final approval by responsible Stanford University entities; they concern Fundamental Rights/Rights of Accused/Calling Witnesses and Fundamental Rights/Cooperation of All Parties.

If you have questions or would like more information, please call 650-725-2485 .