In order to be considered by an administrative tribunal, the evidence must be made available to the tribunal prior to its making a final determination

In order to be considered by an administrative tribunal, the evidence must be made available to the tribunal prior to its making a final determination
Cabonargi v City Univ. of N.Y., 2013 NY Slip Op 00129, Appellate Division, First Department

A doctoral program student dismissed from the City University of New York challenged the University’s decision. After considering “an email from student's academic advisor," Supreme Court granted the student’s petition and directed the University “to reconsider” its decision.

The Appellate Division unanimously reversed, on the law, explaining that Supreme Court improperly considered an email from the student's academic advisor as it was never presented at the administrative level.

Indeed, said the court, the e-mail considered by Supreme Court was issued after the University's “final determination.”

The Appellate Division noted that with respect to the evidence considered at the administrative level, the University's determination concerning the graduate student’s academic qualifications was rational, and was made in good faith and in accordance with its own rules.

The decision is posted on the Internet at:

http://www.courts.state.ny.us/reporter/3dseries/2013/2013_00129.htm