Bucknell University oversees incidents of sexual misconduct within its student body through the use of its Sexual Misconduct Policy. The policy contains explicitly prohibited conduct, as well as a policy that acts as a mechanism for imposing disciplinary measures on students facing allegations of sexual misconduct. The policy is enforced by the University's Title IX Coordinator and follows a different process for disciplinary measures than that of standard behavioral violations.
Bucknell University Disciplinary Proceedings
The process begins when a complaint is filed with the Office of the Title IX Coordinator. When a student files a complaint, they will be known throughout the proceedings as the "complainant," while the student who is the subject of the complaint will be referred to as the "respondent." Once the complaint is filed, an Investigator is assigned to the case. The investigation will consist of gathering facts from witnesses, and versions of the incident from both complainant and respondent. The purpose of the investigation is to determine whether or not a hearing should be held. If a hearing is to be held, respondents will be offered a chance to accept responsibility for the incident prior to the hearing.
Hearings
Hearings will be held by a Hearing Panel, and directed by the Chair of the panel. The Chair will call the hearing to order, and review the charges to be discussed at the hearing. The Investigator will be present as well to introduce the parties to the Hearing Panel. Following this, the Investigator will begin a phase for witness presentation. The Investigator will be able to question all witnesses, and both parties may question witnesses as allowed per the Chair following the Investigator's questioning. After all pertinent information has been presented, the Hearing Panel will allow for closing statements from both parties. The Hearing Panel will then dismiss all participants, and make a determination of responsibility, and if necessary, any consequent sanctions.
Students have the right to the presence of an adviser at their hearings and any meetings with the Investigator. Sexual misconduct allegations can have long-lasting and severe consequences that can follow a student through their life, affecting their personal, academic, and professional goals. Because of this, students should select an attorney to serve as their advisor. An attorney can advise students on time-tested methods of cross-examination and argument used in courtrooms across the nation. These strategies can be incredibly useful when applied to a hearing setting. In addition to this, an attorney will be able to assist and guide a student through any adverse consequences that may arise from the initial reporting at Bucknell University.
Bucknell University Appeals
In the event of an unfavorable outcome, students are entitled to an appeal. Appeals must be submitted within five days of the notification of the outcome. The grounds for appeal are new evidence, procedural error, or disproportionate sanctions.
If you or your student is currently facing Title IX charges or sexual misconduct allegations at Bucknell University, contact the attorneys of LLF Law Firm today.
