Accused of AI Cheating: Student Rights, Due Process, and Defenses in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

As artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and Turnitin’s AI detectors became more common in academic settings, students increasingly faced allegations of “AI cheating”—often without clear policies, adequate notice, or reliable evidence. In response to this growing issue, we hosted a timely and informative webinar designed to empower students, parents, educators, and advocates with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the evolving landscape of AI-related academic integrity cases.

During this 60-minute session, education law experts:

• Explained how AI cheating accusations were typically triggered, including the high incidence of false positives from AI detection tools.
• Examined the flaws in current AI detection systems and how students could challenge unreliable or inaccurate results.
• Outlined the rights students had under FERPA, IDEA, Section 504, and other legal frameworks when facing such allegations.
• Provided practical strategies for responding to accusations, including how to involve parents, advocates, or attorneys.
• Discussed how due process and disability protections could be leveraged in both K–12 and higher education settings.

Attendees gained valuable insights into:

• How to respond effectively to AI cheating accusations.
• Legal and procedural defenses that were available.
• Steps to appeal unfair disciplinary decisions.
• Strategies for protecting academic records and preserving student rights.

The webinar was especially relevant for:

• Students and parents dealing with academic integrity concerns.
• Educators and administrators navigating the implications of AI tools.
• Disability advocates and education professionals supporting student rights.
• Attorneys and advocates working in student defense.

The session offered essential guidance and advocacy tools for anyone affected by the growing use of AI in education. For those who missed the live event, a recording and related materials may still be available—please contact us to learn more.