Stay Out of Trouble: Know the Rules

Cornell’s Code of Conduct

Cornell’s commitment to excellence is reflected in the standards our community has set for conduct, as articulated in the Cornell Campus Code of Conduct. When students violate the Campus Code, they are referred to the Judicial Administrator (JA).

Avoiding the Judicial Administrator

You can avoid visiting the JA’s office by upholding University standards. Read the information you receive about campus policies, especially the House Rules if you live in a campus residence hall.

Rules for faculty and staff

Faculty and staff, particularly those who host functions where they serve alcohol to members of the Cornell community, should familiarize themselves with the University Policy on Alcohol and Other Drugs.

A Special Word About Alcohol-Related Violations

Underage Drinking
Both New York State law and Cornell’s Code of Conduct require individuals to be 21 years-old before they may drink alcohol.

Fake IDs
It is illegal to create or possess altered government or University documents to by-pass the legal drinking age.

Disorderly Conduct
Intentionally causing or recklessly creating a risk of disruption to the community (e.g., loud or belligerent behavior, obstruction of traffic or public urination) is a violation of the Campus Code.

Rules in the Residence Halls
For students in the University's Residence Halls, it is a violation of the House Rules for students under 21 to be in the presence of alcohol. Students who are 21 or older are not permitted to consume alcohol if there are students under 21 present.

Do the right thing: The Medical Amnesty Protocol
In an alcohol-related emergency, you can avoid judicial consequences with Medical Amnesty. Be a good bystander: although it is illegal for individuals under the age of 21 to drink alcohol, never let the fear of disciplinary JA action impede your willingness to call for help in an emergency. Severe intoxication can be life-threatening, as can be serious injuries sustained after consuming alcohol.  In order to encourage students to call 911 in alcohol emergencies, Cornell provides a Medical Amnesty Protocol which reduces or removes the judicial consequences typically associated with alcohol consumption.