Title IX is a federal law designed to prevent sex discrimination at our nation’s schools. It calls for schools to hold an investigation any time allegations of harassment or assault, sex discrimination, domestic violence, stalking, or another gender-based harm are made. The consequences to an accused student can be severe—including suspension or expulsion.
Anyone facing allegations should contact one of our experienced Title IX attorneys at Leifert & Leifert today to discuss how we can help you protect your reputation and get your academic career back on track. Protect your reputation and future by hiring a Lawyer to help you prepare for the process of a Title IX investigation. You deserve nothing less than the best representation.
Steps of a Title IX Investigation
The first step in investigating a Title IX allegation is notifying the parties – the accused and the complainant – that a complaint has been made. The school then collects evidence and gathers facts to determine whether a formal hearing is necessary. Sometimes, the complaint is dismissed, with no action taken; other times, the allegations are dealt with without a formal hearing.
When there is enough evidence to justify it, a formal hearing is held to review the allegations. Then, a decision is released. Possible outcomes include suspension and expulsion. An Attorney can advocate for the student throughout the process, ensuring their rights are respected and that a strong case is made for their innocence, both through argument and assembling of evidence in the accused student’s favor.
What to Do and Not to Do If Facing a Title IX Investigation
Before contacting a Lawyer, your student should not speak to anyone about their case, including investigators, school officials, or friends. The student should also refrain from speaking to Law Enforcement or the complainant or posting on social media about the allegations.
An accused student should preserve evidence, such as bedding and clothing that could be tested for DNA and any photo or video footage, text messages, or direct messages. Your student could also write a detailed narrative of the events in question and make a list of witnesses. These can prove useful later in the investigation. A Title IX Attorney can review the other steps your student should follow throughout the process.
Title IX Investigation and Criminal Proceedings
A Title IX investigation would be independent of any criminal proceeding, as it is a civil law. Although these investigations do not offer the accused the same rights as a criminal trial would, accused students do have rights. These include:
- A fair process
- The ability to appeal
- An advisor or attorney
- An unbiased investigation
- The ability to collect and review evidence
- The ability to have a hearing and cross-examine witnesses
The consequences of these investigations can include suspension and expulsion, so you should hire an Attorney to help argue your student’s case. We can also gather evidence, help reduce the mental anguish and stress associated with the process, and allow the student to focus on clearing their name with the benefit of a clear head.
Reach Out to a Title IX Attorney Today to Discuss the Investigation Process
Call one of our Lawyers today for a free consultation to discuss how we might help you deal with the process of a Title IX investigation. Your reputation and your degree are very important. Protect them by hiring a qualified Attorney.
