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The Title IX defense attorneys at K Altman Law know how the rules regarding Title IX can seem confusing and opaque. Being accused of a Title XI offense can affect your life for months and years. If you retain a student defense lawyer, you are more likely to understand how the Title IX rules are implemented by universities and colleges in the United States.
Title IX: The Basics
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The process of resolving Title IX complaints can be complex. Also, the university or college may not be helpful as you attempt to understand the rules of Title IX. However, if you have a skilled student defense lawyer on your side, you will be able to understand the most confusing aspects of a Title IX investigation.
Title IX is a federal law. Included in sections of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, Title IX protects individuals from sex-based discrimination in education programs that receive funds from the federal government. Title IX states as follows: No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.
Any educational institutions receiving federal funds from the Department of Education is subject to Title IX and must not allow sex-based discrimination. Local and state educational agencies are also bound by Title IX. Universities, colleges, and secondary schools also must not retaliate against a person for expressing opposition to unlawful policies and practices.
What Happens During Title IX Proceedings?
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A Title IX office at a university or college will receive a report stating that a student suffered sex-based discrimination. Title IX reports may feature allegations brought by one student against a fellow student. Also, Title IX reports may be filed by a faculty member against a student. Most of these complaints focus on some form of sexual misconduct, including sexual assault, sexual harassment, or sexually inappropriate behavior.
A student bringing the Title IX report is the complainant, and the student accused of a Title IX offense is the respondent. A respondent may have their status as a full-time student placed in jeopardy by a Title IX investigation. If a respondent is found guilty of committing a Title IX offense, they may be expelled. Faculty members found guilty of committing a Title IX offense may be dismissed from their academic post. State criminal charges may also be filed against the respondent depending on the facts and circumstances of the case.
Defensive Strategies and Title IX Offenses
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Many respondents facing Title IX investigations choose to have an advisor assist them with their defense. Retaining a knowledgeable and experienced student defense lawyer is the best thing you can do if you are accused of a Title IX offense. Universities and colleges will implement their own policies and procedures for implementing Title IX. A skilled student defense lawyer can help you investigate the rules that apply at your particular university or college.
How Do Title IX Hearings Work?
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Title IX hearings occur on campus. Specific Title IX proceedings may begin once an administrative officer receives a report of sexual discrimination. These reports may concern two students or a faculty member and a student. Title IX complaints often concern sexual misconduct or sexual assault allegations. Students may make allegations of rape, stalking, making sexually suggestive comments, and sexual harassment.
A panel of investigators are often involved during Title IX investigations. The Title IX panel will review the allegations and substantive evidence brought against a faculty member or student. If you are a respondent, Title IX investigators will ask you about your contact with the complainant and any sexual contact that occurred between you and the complainant. The Title IX panel wants to understand the details of the matter so they can decide if you are responsible for the allegations brought against you.
An experienced student defense lawyer can help you develop an effective case strategy for the Title IX investigation. Legal guidance from an experienced professional will help you throughout every phase of the Title IX investigation.
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Why It Is Important For You to Retain an Experienced Title IX Defense Attorney
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You do not want to risk your academic and professional future by handling every aspect of a Title IX investigation on your own. A skilled Title IX defense attorney can help you prepare for interviews, coach you prior to a Title IX hearing, and conduct a private investigation. Contact K Altman Law today to learn about the ways a knowledgeable Title IX defense attorney can help you. We have years of experience representing clients in Title IX investigations. Our team is prepared to help you. Contact K Altman Law today at (888) 984-1341.
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