Academic Misconduct - Academic Malpractice

Testimonials

Please browse the testimonials below to see what other students have said about the outstanding legal advice and assistance we have given to them in connection with their academic misconduct cases.

Academic Misconduct - Academic Dishonesty - Academic Integrity - Academic Malpractice - Cheating - Collusion - Fabrication of Data - Falsification - Panel Hearings - Plagiarism - Withdrawal - Termination of Studies

Parent of final year student studying BSc Mathematics (Hons) accused of academic misconduct (collusion) by the Faculty of the University - RT Coopers painstakingly analysed the evidence adduced by the Faculty, held a consultation with the student and drafted a detailed Statement in defence of the allegation made by the Faculty - The Statement was submitted by the student - there was no hearing - the allegation was dismissed by the Faculty without going any further than the investigation stage - Excellent outcome for such a complicated case. First Published in Google My Business Reviews

'Rosanna helped our family when my daughter was suspected of academic misconduct. Rosanna is a unique individual and I am honoured to have made her acqaintance.
For me, Rosanna is not only an impeccable lawyer, but an extraordinary person, a role model for other people, examplifying such qualities as dedication, professionalism and a real sense of having a personal mission to help people.' Victoria Ten

Final year student studying BSc Mathematics (Hons) accused of academic misconduct (collusion) by the Faculty of the University - RT Coopers painstakingly analysed the evidence adduced by the Faculty, held a consultation with the student and drafted a detailed Statement in defence of the allegation made by the Faculty - The Statement was submitted by the student - there was no hearing - the allegation was dismissed by the Faculty without going any further than the investigation stage - Excellent outcome for such a complicated case.

'RT Cooper is a firm characterized by excellence and care for their clients and I would recommend it to anyone! I cannot convey how grateful I am to Dr. Rosanna Cooper who won my case by disposing of an allegation of academic misconduct. As a final year mathematics student who was accused of academic misconduct by my University, I was in absolute panic until I met Rosanna. Her kindness, generosity and professionalism are extraordinary. The time and work that Rosanna invested in my case made me see me that she truly cares about securing the best outcome for me.

I know that it is her knowledge, her combination of legal and scientific professional insight, that gave my defense statement a chance to be strong. Rosanna drafted an excellent defense statement despite the tight deadline and the complexity of my case, which required unpicking content of university-level mathematics and programming. Rosanna really understood the details surrounding my case and how each of these complexities needed to be addressed. The statement that she completed was thorough on all fronts, and her communication was prompt throughout. Her composure and clear instructions on what exactly needed to be done to maximally strengthen my statement allowed me to focus on specific tasks, instead of panicking. I am very grateful for your help' Mallysa Oceon

MSc student accused of academic misconduct - RT Coopers provided advice prior to investigation hearing - Outcome was poor academic proactice and student able to attain distinction. First Published in Google Business Profile Reviews

'Rosanna is an angel, heaven sent. Someone with a big heart. When the university informed me that I was suspected with academic misconduct, I was horrified. I only required a minute of legal counsel, and she took my case to heart. Thank you'. Ms P

Student studying MSc Biopharmaceuticals accused of self-plagiarism. Following the investigation meeting, student given the option to accept the allegation and be awarded zero for the module and a capped mark of 50 percent on resubmission. Student denied the allegation as believed there was no plagiarism. RT Coopers instructed to advise and assist student as well as to draft a statement in defence. Consultation held with student and then statement was drafted by the firm. The analysis of the evidence adduced by the university showed that there was no plagiarism. One of the defences of the allegation was procedural irregularity. The student had to attend a committee hearing. The committee held that there was no self plagiarism. The allegation was dismissed. First published in Google Business Profile Reviews

‘I enquired with several firms about a case of self plagiarism. RT Coopers Solicitors was quick to respond and straight away we were able to go through the specifics of my case. Rosanna spent several hours on Zoom with me going through my entire literature review and we complied evidence that I could use in my appeal. Rosanna also prepared a strong statement that I could use in my case. Whilst waiting for my appeal date Rosanna was on hand to answer any questions and always replied promptly. After appealing, I won the case and am set to graduate with a Distinction. This was a huge relief to me as if the original decision had not been overturned I would’ve graduated with a Merit. I can’t thank RT Coopers enough - they helped me tremendously compiling the evidence and statement I needed to win my case. Highly recommend!’ Jenny

Final year student studying BSc Economics accused of minor academic misconduct (collusion) in relation to examination in January 2022. Student at risk of getting a 2:2 for award of degree for final classification. Allegation was refuted as there was no evidence to support the allegation brought by the university. RT Coopers held consultation with student and particularised the grounds of appeal. RT Coopers drafted statement. Student appeal upheld and passed module with a 2:1. Student will graduate with a 2:1 for Economics degree. First published in Google Business Profile Reviews

'I cannot recommend Rosanna and her team highly enough. I approached Coopers regarding an allegation of academic misconduct. My son was devastated when he received this allegation. My son has worked so hard at University and to think this could get taken away so unfairly. When you read the reviews of many people here they state Rosana really cares and I cannot reiterate this enough. Thank you so much for your help'. Lou L

Father of student wrongly accused of academic malpractice. Supportive father. RT Coopers drafted a detailed appeal on grounds of procedural irregularity and mitigating circumstances. Student awarded first class honours degree as appeal was upheld - First published in Google Business Profile Reviews

Outcome: 'Dr Rosanna Cooper has just completed a 4 month long fight against my daughter's university for false accusations of academic misconduct. The university offered no evidence or proof whatsoever, handled the case appaulingly and in the end with no other options left went with academic judgement which we were told by other lawyers could not be challenged, wrong! Rosanna told us that academic judgement absolutely can be challenged in certain circumstances and agreed to take on my daughters case. Yesterday we got notification that Rosanna had won my daughters appeal. My daughter had been put through hell by her uni and Rosanna was the angel sent to help us. The weight now lifted off my daughter's shoulders is indescribable. If you have a similar situation and you feel hopeless and overwhelmed I can tell you that there is hope, it is Dr Rosanna Cooper. Rosanna is not like most lawyers, she really cares and goes above and beyond to calm her clients and get them to focus on what is needed to win their case. Thank you Rosanna from the bottom of our hearts'. Daron Brown

Final year language student wrongly accused of academic malpractice. The allegations were denied by the student. There was clearly mishandling of the case by the university as the university had no evidence and sought to rely on academic judgement. The case was investigated and referred to a committee. RT Coopers picked up the case after another firm of solicitors had drafted a statement for the student and academic malpractice was upheld. RT Coopers drafted a detailed appeal on grounds of procedural irregularity and mitigating circumstances. Student academic appeal was successful - allowed to progress with first class honours. First published in Google Business Profile Reviews.

'Update: I have received a successful outcome to my case and I do not think I will ever be able to express my gratitude to Dr Rosanna Cooper enough. Rosanna agreed to take on my case at a time that I truly began to accept that all might be lost after being ignored, misled and mistreated by my University. I was told by previous legal representation that once a University sides with academic judgement there isn’t really much you can do to challenge that. However, when I came to Rosanna, she reassured me that all was not lost and that there was a way to fight back. I can honestly say Rosanna’s tenacity, meticulousness, insight, humour and heart was a heaven send when I needed it most. She told me to let go of my distress and emotion and to pull my socks up and get to work and that’s exactly what we did together. Rosanna understood me more than I understood myself and showed me that she was going to fight as hard as she could in my corner. From the get-go, Rosanna demonstrated her expertise and intellectually sophisticated approach to understanding every minor detail of my case in order to truly grasp what had gone on. Once she understood all of the evidence and with her impeccable understanding of University policies and procedures, she skilfully linked the important details of my case with the necessary evidence into succinct arguments. She also helped me to comprehensively convey that I have mental health issues that had an unforeseeable impact on my studies and which had previously not been considered by my University. She worked morning through the night and over and above what she had previously predicted, in a very short space of time, to help me build my case from scratch all over again. I can honestly say I have never met someone so dedicated to their work and achieving the right and just outcome. She had an envious ability to see the bigger picture whilst also being able to unearth the small but indispensable arguments in my case. If you need a lawyer on your side, not only to fight with their skill but also their heart, Rosanna is without a doubt, the person you want on your side. As someone has said in a previous review – there is no number of stars that could qualify my satisfaction with Rosanna Cooper and RT Coopers Firm'. j t

First year student studying for a degree in Mathematics with Management and Finance was accused of collusion by a University during open book exams. Like most students during lockdown, the lecturers did not get a chance to complete the modules. There were irregularities surrounding the exam papers for these modules and the University did not have clear procedures, regulations or policies in relation to sitting open book exams. During the lockdown period, the student sought answers from a chatroom (specifically about the irregularities pertaining to these exam papers). The basis for the allegation of collusion was that there were other students sharing information about the exams in the chatroom and this amounted to collusion as the student could have and must have seen the questions and answers that were being circulated. Clearly, the allegations were false and with damaging consequences for the student if found guilty of collusion. The student was put under tremendous pressure to accept the allegation of collusion. RT Coopers advised the student to deny the allegation and drafted the appeal and represented the student at the hearing. The penalty was a warning (with no justification) although the panel stated that this would be removed from the student’s records at the end of the course. The student was satisfied with this outcome as a number of other students were in the chatroom at the same time had been accused and found guilty of collusion, given harsher penalties with no means of removing the offence from their records. This was a very difficult case for both sides in particular as the University was trying to clamp down on students' using chatrooms during open book exams without having any regulations or policies to deal with the issues. Clearly, a good outcome for the student. We applaud the student for taking a stance against the University and ensuring that the penalty was a warning with no impact on the student’s future.

'I was wrongly accused of collusion by my university. I was about to give up on my case, as other solicitors said that they cannot win my case, when Rosanna Cooper contacted me and said that we can win. We managed to reduce penalty of collusion to just warning. Rosanna helped me to prepare written submission and was very supportive during the misconduct meeting and after. I’m very happy with the work and I would highly recommend RT Coopers. 5 stars.' AY

'Rosanna Cooper is by far and away the most professional and compassionate lawyer I have ever dealt with. Rosanna helped my daughter put together an appeal against serious mistreatment by her university. It was a very traumatic time for my daughter and Rosanna calmed her down and got her to focus on writing an incredible appeal with Rosanna’s help. This lady has the biggest heart and we would have been lost without her help, she treated my daughter with respect and compassion and was fair with charges. I cannot speak highly enough of Rosanna who we both consider a friend now. If I could give 6 stars if I could. Thank you for everything you’ve done for us Rosanna Cooper you are an angel'.Daron Brown

Final year language student wrongly accused of academic malpractice. The allegations were denied by the student. There was clearly mishandling of the case by the university as the university had no evidence and sought to rely on academic judgement. The case was investigated and referred to a committee. RT Coopers picked up the case after another firm of solicitors had drafted a statement for the student and academic malpractice was upheld. RT Coopers drafted a detailed appeal on grounds of procedural irregularity and mitigating circumstances. First published in Google Business Profile Reviews.

'Whilst I have not yet received an outcome to my case, I believe it is essential that I convey my gratitude for everything Dr Rosanna Cooper has done for me to date. Rosanna agreed to take on my case at a time that I truly began to accept that all might be lost after being ignored, misled and mistreated by my University. I was told by previous legal representation that once a University sides with academic judgement there isn’t really much you can do to challenge that. However, when I came to Rosanna, she reassured me that all was not lost and that there was a way to fight back. I can honestly say Rosanna’s tenacity, meticulousness, insight, humour and heart was a heaven send when I needed it most. She told me to let go of my distress and emotion and to pull my socks up and get to work and that’s exactly what we did together. Rosanna understood me more than I understood myself and showed me that she was going to fight as hard as she could in my corner. From the get-go, Rosanna demonstrated her expertise and intellectually sophisticated approach to understanding every minor detail of my case in order to truly grasp what had gone on. Once she understood all of the evidence and with her impeccable understanding of University policies and procedures, she skilfully linked the important details of my case with the necessary evidence into succinct arguments. She also helped me to comprehensively convey that I have mental health issues that had an unforeseeable impact on my studies and which had previously not been considered by my University. She worked morning through the night and over and above what she had previously predicted, in a very short space of time, to help me build my case from scratch all over again. I can honestly say I have never met someone so dedicated to their work and achieving the right and just outcome. She had an envious ability to see the bigger picture whilst also being able to unearth the small but indispensable arguments in my case. If you need a lawyer on your side, not only to fight with their skill but also their heart, Rosanna is without a doubt, the person you want on your side. As someone has said in a previous review – there is no number of stars that could qualify my satisfaction with Rosanna Cooper and RT Coopers Firm'. j t

Final year Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) student excluded after 5 years of studying pharmacy - accused of academic misconduct - extremely harsh penalty as this was a minor examination incident - university had wrongly interpreted its regulations on academic misconduct – university took a tough stance – by the time RT Coopers were instructed it seemed that there was no chance of obtaining the MPharm - following face to face consultation with student to particularise the grounds of appeal - RT Cooper drafted stage 2 academic appeal against Panel's decision on grounds of procedural irregularities and extenuating circumstances – RT Coopers guided the student to escalate the case as there were other factors that had to be explored at a higher level within the university in case such factors had impacted on the decision of the Panel – RT Coopers continued to provide guidance and support throughout the whole process (sometimes it seemed bleak) – eventually the university changed its regulation as a direct result of this case in order to allow the student to have a final attempt at the exam in question (unprecedented) - registration to the GPhC was also reinstated - Passed retake exam and looking forward to becoming a pharmacist! First published in Google Business Profile Reviews.

First testimonial

'I was in a desperate situation and felt that I had exhausted all means of possibilities. I was broken and felt hopeless. This is how I honestly felt, a feeling of being to the end of my rope. I sent an academic appeal to the University I was attending and was rejected as I was trying to show procedural irregularities, but it appears that it was viewed as academic judgment. After speaking with Rosanna, that darkness at the end of my tunnel was restored to a very bright light. Her mannerisms, personality and professionalism were not just that of a lawyer but her remarkable energy and zest for her field allowed her to transform into a comforter and friend. I was able to see my way forward. I will strongly recommend RT Coopers Solicitors to anyone.' Iyare Evbuomwan.

Following appeal:

'I would like to give a personal testimonial for the excellent service I received from RT Coopers. I met Rosanna after I spoke with several solicitors. seeking legal help regarding my situation with the University. With all the other solicitors/barristers I felt belittled by them but not with Rosanna Cooper. Rosanna and her team made me feel welcome. She understands me so perfectly that I feel she knew me for many years. Although Rosanna was friendly, she always remained professional. Her attitude towards my case was honest and professional. Despite the difficulties of my case and after the rejection of my appeal by the University, Rosanna offered support and faith. From a situation where the University decision was to terminate my Registration, Rosanna transformed it into a successful appeal. She worked exceptionally hard and paid attention to every small detail of my situation my registration was re-in-stated. There were times when I rang Rosanna out of hours, but she was always on hand to listen and encourage. I strongly recommend RT Coopers to students as I know they will not only make you feel welcome and important, through hard work and determination, you will have a greater chance of winning your case. Rosanna was an angel. Thank you so much Rosanna and God Bless You’. Iyare Evbuomwan.

MBA student at prestigious University accused of Collusion - ML accused of sharing Data with a group of students on a social media site. RT Coopers advised ML during an initial consultation to particularise the grounds for the Statement and then skillfully redrafted ML's Statement which was submitted to the University. Successful outcome

'RT Coopers provided great customer service combined with in-depth understanding and expertise in education law. Rosanna gave me competent advice with very fast turnaround time throughout a complex, high-stakes case pertaining to academic misconduct at an elite university. Due to your help & advice, I was acquitted and vindicated! I rate the firm 5 out of 5'. ML

Fourth Year Medical Student - Accused of Plagiarism - Studies Terminated- RT Coopers held consultation with FK to particularise the grounds for Complaint - RT Coopers drafted the Complaint to the OIA - Complaint successful - Now a Doctor

'I asked RT Coopers to help me with my case against my university to the OIA when things were looking completely hopeless. Rosanna was just incredible, she was so reassuring and personally involved from the start, I can’t thank her enough for all the hard work and hours she put into constructing my case, especially because it was so complex. She ensured every detail was discussed and explained and helped me turn things around. I did not expect that I would be able to submit such a strong case to the OIA, I am truly grateful. I would also like to thank her team who put in a lot of effort to help put my case together. Thank you all.' FK

Final year student BA in Politics and International Relations accused of plagiarism - when student instructed RT Coopers the best outcome the student could have hoped for was a zero mark for the module - RT Coopers held audio with Zoey to particularise the grounds for the statement to submit to Panel for hearing - RT Coopers drafted a statement in support of case on the grounds of procedural irregularities and mitigating circumstances - cleared of plagiarism on the strength of the statement

'It has been a pleasure to work with RT Coopers. In their handling of my case, I was met with compassion and true dedication to ensuring that I received the best possible outcome. Rosanna went above and beyond in her work, liaising with me frequently and ensuring that all work was completed to the highest standard. From my experience with the firm, it is evident that RT Coopers is a well run, professional organisation. Their team are friendly and helpful and provide genuine, honest advice. In all matters pertaining to higher education law, I do not believe that there is a firm better equipped to handle student cases or concerns.

I am so thankful for all the work RT Coopers have completed for me. The outcome I received as a consequence of their hard work is more than I could have hoped for. As the head of the firm, Dr Rosanna Cooper is an outstanding solicitor. Her dedication, intellect and compassion are second to none. Throughout her dealings with my case, I was assured, knowing that she was fully devoted to my cause. Given that students invest both emotionally and financially in their education, matters pertaining to higher education law can deem daunting at first. However, with RT Coopers, students can rest assured that their future is in safe hands. After what has been a stressful few months, I am now confident in the knowledge that my future is bright, and that I am fully vindicated with the resolution of my case'. Zoey

Then Final Year Medical Student, now GP: plagiarism and collusion

'I am a medical student and I was really lucky to have found such a professional, reliable and honest solicitor. I worked closely with Rosanna on my case and she was absolutely terrific. The best part of my experience is when we worked on my documents together through the phone. She would play the devil's advocate as we went over each sentence in detail, clearly pointing out the strength and weakness of my defence. She had many constructive ideas to contribute to my case and pushed me to recall important details to bridge the gaps in my evidence. Her technical expertise in the field of my case is second to none. I also valued very much Rosanna's morale support in keeping me strong and focused throughout the process. It was daunting and emotionally draining to face legal accusations but after working with Rosanna, I felt I had a fighting chance on my case. I won my appeal and about to practise as a junior doctor. I am extremely grateful for all the support RT Coopers has given me and I truly hope others in similar positions can find solicitors as good as those on the RT Coopers team.' MT

Final Year Medical Student Accused of Racial Discrimination against another student and Suspended from Medical School – Disciplinary Proceedings - At Risk of Termination due to Accusations made against Student - Statement prepared by RT Coopers and submitted – Reinstatement to Medical School - now Doctor

'I would like to submit this testimonial following the resolution of a serious issue which threatened my completing the final year of my medical degree. I was unjustly accused of racial abuse against a fellow student and the university launched a formal investigation. I was aware that this issue could, if not handled properly, lead to a formal hearing and possible expulsion from my course. I very much needed to present a case which would stop the process at the investigation stage and contacted R T Coopers for help. Rosanna Cooper took on the case herself and made immediate progress by advising me what evidence I needed, how to assimilate it and coached me in how to respond to questions. Rosanna was truly impressive and seemed to have no regard to the hours she put in or the times she could be contacted. Having spent several days preparing the evidence I met with Rosanna the day before the formal investigation meeting and spent several hours with her reviewing the evidence I had collected and discussing the way I should deliver this in the investigation. She advised that I should attend the meeting with one of my parents. After the meeting I felt much more confident in attending the investigation which actually went very well. The result of the investigation was that there was insufficient evidence to support the allegations and that no further action should be taken. I cannot thank Rosanna enough for the advice and coaching that she gave me. The allegations were unfounded, and the evidence supported this, nevertheless the support I received enabled me to deal with the investigation in a professional and confident way and succeeded in preventing the process from proceeding further.' CB

Law Student. Not allowed to become a member of the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) because found guilty of plagiarism. On appeal granted membership to the SRA

'I will like to thank RT Coopers especially Rosanna and Tariq for their immense support and advice they offered me within such a short period of contacting them. I had a very tight deadline and was almost on the verge of giving up. They showed concern and thorough dedication and were never late with replying to my emails. I was never made to feel like my case was hopeless, infact their passion and drive gave me the strength I needed both now and for the future. On a few occasions I called Rosanna out of office hours and she was always on hand to listen and encourage me. I still cannot believe how someone could understand me so perfectly within few days of meeting me. I felt like I had known Rosanna for a long time. My thoughts and emotions were well captured, something I could not do myself. I was even advised to take some courses that will help me become a better person, which was beyond my expectations. My experience with RT Coopers has been fantastic and will gladly recommend their services to anyone requiring help and support from education lawyers. My appeal was successful and now I can look forward to a bright future. I rate RT Coopers 5 out of 5, for a highly impeccable service.' R.J

Link to Case Studies

Links to Testimonials

All Testimonials - Academic Appeals various students - Academic Integrity - Academic Misconduct and Academic Malpractice - Cheating - Collusion - Complaints to the OIA against Universities - Dentistry Students - Disciplinary - Exclusions - Expulsions - Extenuating Circumstances - Failed resits for OSCE/ISCE/PACES - Failed resits for written paper - Failed resits - Failed retake year - Fitness to Study - Fitness to Practise - Medical Students - Mitigating Circumstances - Panel Hearings - Pharmacy MPharm & GPhC Registration Assessment Appeals - PhD Students - Plagiarism - Poor Referencing - Procedural Irregularities - Withdrawal - Withdrawn from University - Representation before Panels and Committees - Termination of Studies - Veterinary Students