Empty desks with note books on them in an academic classroom.

TonaLaw regularly represents students of Stony Brook University who have been accused of some Academic Dishonesty. In a recent case, the student client had been accused of plagiarism and collusion on an assignment in an ecology course. The accusation was sent to the student the day before Thanksgiving break. The student hired the attorneys at TonaLaw and provided information that the assignment they were being accused on was an assignment to turn in after an in-class discussion, and the student was presented with the filmed lecture wherein the professor spent approximately eight minutes giving the students an opportunity to discuss the prompts and then discuss with the entire class. 

TonaLaw Attorney Andrew Ciccaroni was able to compare the presented answers from the students to the discussions held in lecture and discovered that the relevant portions of the responses from both of the accused students were taken from the lecture of the professor nearly verbatim. Using this information and the responses Mr. Ciccaroni worked with the student client to draft an appeal statement with support pointing out that not only was the assignment open note in nature and responded to based on the lecture in class, but that there was no motivation to cheat as the student had already turned in more assignments than the student would ever get credit for. Furthermore, the head of the department reviewed the responses and agreed that the evidence was not compelling.

The academic judiciary committee decided to proceed with a joint hearing for the  student involved in the matter. Mr. Ciccaroni prepared the student for the hearing beforehand to discuss the entire case. At the hearing, the student was able to clearly and concisely present a full rebuttal to the charges by pointing out that the simple use of one incomplete sentence was insufficient and stating that other students responded following the same order as the information was presented in class. After questioning, the professor admitted that the notes from a discussion with other students were permissible material to use in preparing a response to the prompts. Based on the information and arguments, the committee determined that there was no clear and compelling evidence of academic misconduct by the student client, and the student was found not to be responsible for any violations of the academic integrity policy of Stonybrook University.

What Our Clients Are Saying

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Amber PalermoAmber Palermo
17:50 23 Dec 22
The professionalism and expertise of the TonaLaw team is unmatched. I’ve worked with Juliet and she was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly and I could tell that she cared about helping me. If you’re looking for a legal team that helps with you any problem, big or small, TonaLaw is a team you can trust.
Regan moriartyRegan moriarty
16:49 23 Dec 22
The TonaLaw team is full of wonderful and hardworking people. I have personally worked with Juliet and she is excellent. You can tell she truly cares about the work she is doing. Highly recommend.
Elizabeth MartinezElizabeth Martinez
15:42 16 Dec 22
I can not be thankful enough for the amazing experience Tonalaw has given me from the very beginning. If you are looking for a lawyer who truly cares about your case then TonaLaw is for you. The amount of time and dedication they put in a case really shows how above and beyond they go. Not to mention how sweet everyone is really makes it a pleasure to work with TonaLaw.
Beatrice CestaroBeatrice Cestaro
22:06 14 Dec 22
I am extremely satisfied and happy to have chosen Tonal Law . The whole experience was flawless And I had absolutely no issues throughout the entire process. Everyone was so helpful and on time with everything, answered any questions I had, and we’re always easily available if I had any concerns. I basically did not have to lift a finger or do absolutely anything at all but answer a few questions. I put my full trust into Tona Law and I’m happy I did so. Would for sure recommend to any of my family and friends.
Anita AbramsAnita Abrams
21:14 05 Dec 22
Tona Law was an absolute pleasure to work with. As a local ART and Custom Framing resource, we helped to enhance their new offices, with beautiful and sophisticated, well curated artwork. Tom and his team were closely involved in all of the selections, and the environment is warm and friendly, as a result. Everyone at Tona Law, is considerate and professional.
Dawn DemartinoDawn Demartino
16:25 11 May 22
From start to finish I was informed every step of the way of the status and updates of my case… the time and steps taken to resolve my case in the best possible outcome was just one of the many great things Tonalaw provided. Personal care and commitment is top notch. Thank you !!
Louis B.Louis B.
15:27 08 Apr 22
Over the last few years Tona Law has guided me through the process with clear communication throughout. They are truly a client advocate and will do everything in the best interest of the client. Cannot thank them enough for all their work done for me.
Richard WoolleyRichard Woolley
19:49 26 Mar 22
Tom Tona and his team are fantastic. They do a great job for their clients. Can't recommend them highly enough.
Stacy LofredoStacy Lofredo
23:41 24 Mar 22
Tona Law has simplified no fault medical billing in a way that allows staff to effortlessly navigate through what could be a confusing process. Their staff is knowledgeable and responsive that we never have to worry about the ever-changing regulations because they are on top of keeping up to date with any changes in keeping their clients informed which is priceless!
Ruben ReyesRuben Reyes
15:29 13 Aug 21
They responded right away and were very professional. Brittany Reyes was very helpful. Thank you for your help
Randy RodriguezRandy Rodriguez
03:24 09 Aug 21
Would highly recommend if anyone is seeking any legal advice!
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