Title IX

If your student was a victim of sexual harassment or accused of sexual harassment, you may want to consider the best title IX attorneys around your area. Title IX protects students from sex-based discrimination. This law applies to colleges, universities, and public schools.  Title IX keeps students protected against discrimination by the school they are attending when it comes to disciplinary actions, educational resources, and more. This guide will provide you with frequently asked questions about Title IX and everything you need to know.

FAQS About Title IX

Here are some answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about Title IX.

Once a Title IX complaint has been filed, what happens next?

First, a school must be aware of allegations regarding sexual harassment in their activities or programs against a student. They must also be given ample time to respond to these allegations. The Title IX coordinator in the school must then reach out to the alleged student and provide them with the procedures they must take to file a formal complaint.

Once this step has been completed, the school will begin its investigation of the sexual harassment allegations listed in the complaint. The Title IX coordinator has the power to file the formal complaint even if the student wishes not to participate in the process.

The school must then notify the complainant and the respondent in writing. All allegations must be thoroughly investigated. The investigation may consist of various interviews with both parties.  A hearing will also be held to allow both sides to question the witness. Following the hearing, the school must provide both parties with their determination in writing.

What consequences will I face if a Title IX complaint was filed against me?

If you have been accused of a Title IX complaint, you could face some pretty serious consequences. It is possible that the school may remove you if you’ve been accused of sexual harassment. You could also be removed from student housing or certain classes.

If you were found responsible for sexual harassment, you may be suspended or expelled from the school. It’s also possible for the school to take away your financial aid and scholarships.

Should I depend on the school to protect my rights?

Many schools fail to properly handle Title IX complaints. Schools are constantly pressured to prevent sexual harassment and acknowledge it when it does take place. However, they have found themselves involved in many lawsuits filed by the victims when these complaints are not properly dealt with. With that being said, many schools fail to keep students’ rights protected once they have been accused.

What is the difference between a criminal case and a Title IX complaint?

Title IX complaints are investigated by the school, unless, of course, a lawsuit is filed. The coordinator of Title IX for the school has a duty to investigate these cases. Evidence must be clear. The accused may face suspension or be removed from the school entirely.

There are some instances where a Title IX complaint may result in criminal charges being filed. Once those charges have been filed, the investigation will be conducted by law enforcement, with a judge making the final determination.

Can a Title IX Defense attorney help me?

If you hire an experienced Title IX attorney once you have received the formal complaint, he or she can help protect your rights. An attorney can help appeal your case if the school does remove you or file other disciplinary action against you. Your attorney also has the ability to push further legal action and inform you of any possible criminal charges.