<p>It occurs to me that, no matter the outcome of the lawsuit, colleges might not be too keen to admit a student with a litigious bent. I really think the whole thing's ridiculous - filing a lawsuit (in which you'll have to reveal not only the incident in question but other biographical info. you might have considered personal) in order not to have to reveal something to colleges. I would never think this is an appropriate essay topic (assuming the goal is to gain admittance). </p>
<p>This reminds me of the Princeton undergrad who stated on the front page of the New York Times (last winter, I think) that his parents didn't know he was cutting class and earning big bucks playing on-line poker. Maybe they didn't know the day before, but unless they're living in their own biosphere, they'd know now. </p>
<p>What I would do is attempt to explain the incident and offer to show colleges the original paper so they could draw their own conclusions. If she can't get in where she wants on the first try, she could go the c.c. route and earn her way in through good behavior and grades. Most people allow 18 year olds a second chance.</p>