Each year that I have served as attorney for UR Students? Association, one or more university students have faced criminal charges. When this type of legal problem occurs it is extremely important that it be handled properly. If not handled properly, the person who faces arrest will suffer.
For that reason, I would like to share with all of you how I believe this kind of legal problem should be handled.
If anyone in the UR community is being investigated by security or by any police agency for a crime, the advice of a lawyer should be immediately secured. If at all possible, a lawyer should be called before there has been an arrest and before the circumstances of the alleged criminal offense are discussed with anyone.
It is the constitutional right of every person (students included) not to speak with law enforcement officials when that person is being investigated for criminal activity. It is also every person?s right to be represented by a lawyer at all times when he or she is a suspect in a criminal investigation. These very important rights should always be exercised.
I will meet with and provide legal advice to students at UR every other Wednesday, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. This service is paid for by your SA ? students will not be charged for these on campus counselling sessions. My next visit will be Sept. 15.
If you wish to schedule a Wednesday appointment, or if there is an emergency and you need to speak with me sooner, please contact Debbie Gaudet at the SA office at x53236.
? Paul D. KellyDavidson, Fink, Cook, Kelly & Galbraith, LLP
