What is High Tech Institute Lawsuit?
High Tech Institute (HTI) is a for-profit vocational school that has been accused of defrauding students. In 2007, thirteen current and former students filed suit against HTI in the Circuit Court of Jackson County, Missouri, alleging that the school engaged in fraudulent misrepresentation, violated the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, negligently trained and supervised employees, and breached the enrollment agreement it had entered into with each student.
The students alleged that HTI had lied to them about the quality of its education, its accreditation status, and the job prospects of its graduates. They also claimed that the school had engaged in predatory lending practices and had failed to provide them with the services that they had been promised.
HTI denied all of the allegations against it. However, in 2009, the court ruled in favor of the students and awarded them $10 million in damages. HTI appealed the decision, but the ruling was upheld by the Missouri Court of Appeals in 2011.
The HTI lawsuit is significant because it is one of the largest and most successful lawsuits filed against a for-profit vocational school. It also highlights the many ways in which these schools can defraud students.
FAQs:
Q: What are the allegations against High Tech Institute?
A: The allegations against HTI include fraudulent misrepresentation, violations of the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, negligence, and breach of contract. Specifically, the students allege that HTI lied to them about the quality of its education, its accreditation status, and the job prospects of its graduates. They also claim that the school engaged in predatory lending practices and failed to provide them with the services that they had been promised.
Q: What was the outcome of the lawsuit?
A: In 2009, the court ruled in favor of the students and awarded them $10 million in damages. HTI appealed the decision, but the ruling was upheld by the Missouri Court of Appeals in 2011.
Q: Is High Tech Institute still in business?
A: Yes, HTI is still in business. However, it is now known as Anthem Schools.
Q: What should I do if I think I have been defrauded by High Tech Institute?
A: If you think you have been defrauded by HTI, you should contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your state’s attorney general’s office. You may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness through the Borrower Defense to Repayment program.
Q: What is the Borrower Defense to Repayment program?
A: The Borrower Defense to Repayment program allows borrowers to have their student loans forgiven if they were defrauded by their school. To qualify for the program, borrowers must file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education.
Q: How can I avoid being defrauded by a for-profit vocational school?
A: There are a few things you can do to avoid being defrauded by a for-profit vocational school:
- Do your research before enrolling in any school. Check the school’s accreditation status and job placement rates.
- Read the school’s enrollment agreement carefully before signing it. Make sure you understand all of the terms and conditions.
- Be wary of schools that promise guaranteed job placement or high-paying jobs.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you have any concerns about the school or its program, ask the admissions counselor or financial aid advisor for more information.
If you are considering enrolling in a for-profit vocational school, it is important to be aware of the risks involved. These schools can be very expensive and they often do not deliver on their promises. Be sure to do your research and ask plenty of questions before enrolling in any school.
References:
- Fallos v. High Tech Institute (2009): https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/us-8th-circuit/1475716.html
- High Tech Institute Accused Of Defrauding Students: https://www.courthousenews.com/high-tech-institute-accused-of-defrauding-students/
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