- Last updated:
- 01/01/2026
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on Respondent Attorney Engagement
- Contact:
IU Research Integrity Office (RIO)
rio@iu.edu
Research Misconduct Respondent Attorney Engagement SOP
Purpose
This SOP outlines procedures for engaging respondent attorneys in research misconduct proceeding, pursuant to ACA-30, ensuring clear communication channels.
- Per ACA-30, respondents may be accompanied by an attorney or personal representative when interviewed during the course of research misconduct proceedings.
- Individuals who are otherwise involved in the research misconduct proceedings, including as a witness, cannot act as a personal representative to the respondent.
- When attorneys or personal representatives accompany the respondent during an interview, they may confer with the respondent but may not participate directly in the proceedings. Upon request, inquiry and investigation committees will provide adequate time for conference during interviews.
- Respondents may request that attorneys or personal representatives submit responses or communicate with the University or RIO on their behalf. The RIO will accept such information and distribute to inquiry and investigation committees and the DO as necessary.
- In all cases, Research Integrity Office staff will communicate directly with the respondent regarding the research misconduct proceedings, including the initiation of the inquiry, the investigation process, and any required actions.
- Research Integrity Office staff will not send information directly to attorneys or personal representatives or copy attorneys or personal representatives. Respondents may share information with appropriate individuals as they see fit.
- When materials and/or information are shared electronically, the respondent may request that attorneys or personal representatives be given access; however, a separate request must be submitted each time information is shared.
- Attorneys may communicate directly with the IU Office of Vice President and General Counsel regarding research misconduct proceedings, legal issues, and/or procedural questions. When sending communications and sharing materials intended for review by inquiry or investigation committees or the DO, it is recommended that they copy rio@iu.edu to ensure timely receipt.