A Title IX accusation can have drastic and lasting consequences on your life, including expulsion from school if you are a student, loss of your job if you are a teacher, and a tarnished reputation that could haunt your future. When you have been accused of violating Title IX, it is crucial that you understand what is happening and your rights.
A Lawyer can help you in defending against Title IX charges in Ft. Lauderdale. A defense Attorney experienced in Title IX cases can act as your advisor during the proceedings and help you move forward in a way that maximizes your ability to clear your name and avoid serious consequences.
Scope of Title IX
Title IX is a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational settings. The law covers various kinds of conduct, including sexual harassment, rape, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, stalking, and revenge porn. The law applies to misconduct by students, teachers, professors, coaches, and other staff in most K-12 schools, colleges, and universities.
In some cases, conduct that happens off-campus–including at a fraternity or sorority house–can be the subject of a Title IX violation.
Title IX provides for an administrative proceeding within the school setting. Even though this is not a criminal proceeding in a Court of law, the consequences can significantly impact someone’s life and future in many ways. An Attorney with specific Title IX knowledge can go through a step-by-step explanation of how things work in a proceeding in Ft. Lauderdale and provide guidance on possible ways of defending against the charges.
Consequences of a Title IX Case
The consequences of a Title IX case are serious and can include:
- Reprimand
- Suspension
- Expulsion
- Loss of scholarship
- Forfeited tuition
- Removal from campus housing
- Reputational damage
- Mark on permanent record
In some cases, such as those alleging rape or sexual assault, the accused might be subject to a separate criminal investigation in addition to the Title IX proceeding, which can lead to other ramifications like Jail or Prison time. A Ft. Lauderdale Lawyer experienced in defending against Title IX accusations can provide important guidance to help minimize the chance a person does something during the Title IX process–like make a damaging statement–that can then be used against them in a criminal proceeding.
Presenting a Title IX Defense
Under Title IX law and regulations, a person accused of violating Title IX has rights and is entitled to present a defense. This might be especially important in cases where the whole thing was caused by a misunderstanding or the charges were fabricated.
A Title IX respondent does not have the full rights of a Defendant in criminal Court, but they are entitled to a fair process, including the right to review evidence put forth by the accuser, collect their own evidence, have a hearing with an unbiased decision-maker, a chance to cross-examine witnesses, and appeal an adverse finding in certain circumstances.
A Title IX respondent in Ft. Lauderdale is also entitled to an advisor–which can be an Attorney–to assist them with the process of defending against Title IX accusations. Having an advisor who is also an Attorney with Title IX experience can be extremely helpful. A Legal Representative can bring expertise in connection with evidence review, cross-examination, and overall strategy and protect the rights of the respondent at every stage in the process.
Take Action In Defending Against Title IX Accusations in Ft. Lauderdale
A Title IX accusation can be confusing, frightening, and frustrating. You might be concerned that you will not be able to finish school or pursue the career you always dreamed of. If you are a teacher, you might be worried you will lose your job and good name.
An Attorney experienced with defending against Title IX charges in Ft. Lauderdale can help you understand the process and ensure you present the best possible defense. Call an experienced Attorney at Leifert & Leifert today for a consultation.
