What the Ombuds Does Not Do

The Ombuds will not:

• Provide legal advice
• Offer psychological counseling or therapy
• Make decisions or render judgments on issues
• Conduct formal investigations
• Participate or testify informal processes, including lawsuits or grievances
• "Take sides" or advocate for individuals or the university in a dispute
• Accept notice on behalf of the university
• Keep formal records documenting an individual's visit
• Advocate for any individual, group or organization, including UC Merced
• Share information with others without an individual's knowledge or permission
• Make or change policy or administrative decisions