Defending College Students in Title IX Investigations

Defending College Students in Title IX Investigations

Allegations of sexual assault or misconduct handled internally on college campuses can have life-altering repercussions for accused students. These allegations are treated by schools as serious as a criminal charge and can affect your future education, work prospects, and even your reputation for years to come. A Title IX Defense Lawyer can help you through the process of a school’s internal investigation and hearing to protect your rights and reputation.

Federal law requires schools to have a comprehensive and fair complaint process in which complainants are presumed innocent and able to meaningfully defend themselves. Unfortunately, this is not always the case and universities are increasingly being sued by both accusers and defendants for their unfair and biased investigations and hearings.

A key element of the Title IX defense is to gather and present evidence that supports your side. The investigators will likely start by asking you for documents and contact information for witnesses. You should immediately begin gathering any evidence that you can think of. Anything you say to someone can be used against you as evidence and you should be cautious about what you post on social media or text other people.

If the school determines that you violated its policy, it must allow you to appeal a finding or suspension. An experienced Title IX Lawyer Mesa can help you decide if an appeal is the best way to proceed. Appeals must follow a strict process to ensure equal access and fairness for both parties.

Stalking is a pattern of unwanted attention, harassment, or contact that causes a person to fear for their safety or the safety of others or suffer substantial emotional distress. It includes following or surveilling a person, making repeated unwanted approaches, contacting them without permission, sending them gifts and other items, and threatening or harassing them in any way.

A victim of stalking may also experience significant fear and anxiety in other areas of their lives, such as leaving the house or going to work. This has been particularly true since COVID-19 closed many public places and left victims with fewer options for shopping or travelling alone.

If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking, we encourage you to document each incident, safely, for your records and to seek support and protection with a professional familiar with these crimes. The Title IX attorneys at Allen Harris can help you protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome for your case.

 

 

 

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