Allegations of sexual assault at colleges are handled through Title IX rules and procedures. If you are accused of sexual misconduct on a college campus, it is critical to find Title IX attorneys to fight for you. Many “local attorneys” will handle Title IX cases, but we believe it is best to have attorneys that fight sexual assault cases around the world with the highly focused experience few others possess.
Title IX Lawyers
What is Title IX
Title IX is a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any educational program or activity that receives federal funding. This includes schools, colleges, and universities. The law applies to all students, faculty, and staff, and covers a wide range of areas, including athletics, admissions, and harassment.
One of the most well-known aspects of Title IX is its impact on athletics. Before the law was passed, girls and women had limited opportunities to participate in sports. Title IX effectively requires equal opportunities for girls and women to participate in sports and receive the same benefits as boys and men. This includes access to facilities, equipment, and scholarships. On many college campuses, entire athletic programs have been eliminated due to the practical effects of Title IX.
Title IX also prohibits sexual harassment and assault. In recent years, schools and universities aggressively pursue anyone accused of sexual misconduct under the rules of Title IX. Title IX essentially creates the rules that govern the due-process rights of those accused, and also gives the alleged victim’s powerful control of many aspects of the process. Due-process means the right to a fair proceeding before the determination of fault.
One of the main critiques of Title IX is related to how it handles sexual assault claims. Everyday, we see that the current system does not provide enough due process for those accused of sexual harassment and assault. The current system has put the rights of the accused at risk, and has led to many false accusations.
Most importantly, anyone accused of a Title IX violation has the right to consult an attorney.
What Are Your Rights if Accused of a Title IX Violation
If you are accused of a Title IX violation, such as sexual harassment or assault, you have certain rights that must be protected by the school or university. These rights include:
- The right to be notified of the allegations: You have the right to be informed of the specific allegations against you and the evidence supporting them.
- The right to a fair and impartial investigation: You have the right to have your case investigated fairly and impartially. This includes having the opportunity to present evidence and to cross-examine witnesses.
- The right to representation: You have the right to be represented by an advisor of your choice, including an attorney, during the investigation and any subsequent hearing.
- The right to due process: You have the right to a fair and impartial hearing, which includes the right to be heard, the right to call witnesses, and the right to present evidence.
- The right to a timely resolution: You have the right to have your case resolved as quickly as possible, consistent with the need for a fair and impartial process.
- The right to appeal: If you are found responsible for a violation, you have the right to appeal the decision.
It’s important to note that these rights may vary depending on the specific school or university you are attending, and may also be subject to change based on federal laws, regulations, and guidance. It’s also important to be aware that, even if the school or university finds you not responsible for a violation, you may still face criminal charges, which would have a different legal process and different rights.
It is highly recommended that if you are facing a Title IX violation investigation or prosecution, to seek the advise of an attorney that has experience in Title IX matters, as they can help guide you through the process and advocate for your rights.
Types of Title IX Cases
Title IX covers a wide range of sexual misconduct, but any allegation under Title IX can ruin your college education or career. Title IX covers non-touching offenses like sexual harassment through language or conduct. Title IX also applies to non-consensual sexual touching. Even if local police and prosecutors refuse to take a case to trial for lack of evidence, Title IX allows colleges and universities to take action under a lower standard than in criminal court.
Sexual assault claims are handled very seriously by colleges and universities. With increased pressure from victim advocate movements, Title IX has repeatedly been rewritten to limit the rights of the accused. During the Obama administration, this meant challenges to the right to counsel, and the right to confront your accuser.
President Trump again made changes to Title IX to restore many of those important rights to the accused. Federal Courts have also been an important resource and have ruled that many of the Obama-era rules were improper.
Sexual assault claims handled under Title IX vary greatly. It is particularly important to hire an attorney familiar with fighting against the wide range types of allegations. For example, many allegations suggest the alleged victim was too drunk to consent. Only a handful of attorneys understand the best approach to defending against “drunk sex” cases. It is critical to have experience attacking the motives and science behind “drunk sex” claims.
We have handled thousands of sexual assault cases and taken hundreds to trial. We’ve seen every variation of case and have a long track record of success.
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Local Title IX Lawyers
Golden Law represents students and faculty around the nation. With our main office in New York City and offices in Chicago and California we have a wide reach. In most Title IX cases, it is better to have an attorney experienced with sexual misconduct law versus a local attorney, no matter how big the name. Our name is the biggest in the industry.
