Haverford College takes instances of sexual misconduct that arise within its student body very seriously. The College upholds a Sexual Misconduct Policy that is used to outline what is constituted as sexual misconduct and what processes will be used by the College to discipline students who have been alleged sources of the misconduct. The process used in these instances is somewhat different than what students would encounter for instances of standard misconduct, and the College's Title IX Coordinator plays a major role in the overall process.
Haverford College Sexual Misconduct Process
Haverford College begins its Judicial Procedures against a student once a complaint about sexual misconduct is filed. The student that presents the allegations will be known as the "complainant," while the student who faces the allegations will be known as the "respondent." The Title IX Coordinator will appoint an investigator to seek out the facts of the incident. The investigator will interview both the complainant and respondent and prepare written statements that summarize the content of the interviews. The investigator will also interview any relevant witnesses suggested by either party. These statements will then be reported to the Dean of the College, who will determine whether or not to convene the Dean's Panel for a hearing. During the investigation, the respondent may be subject to interim measures to protect the safety of the complainant and the integrity of the investigation. This can include no contact orders, rescheduling of classes, or even a temporary suspension.
Hearings With The Dean's Panel
Hearings will begin with an introduction of all parties involved. The chair of the panel will lead the hearing and will determine what method of questioning will be used throughout the hearing. At Dean's Panel hearings generally, the complainant and respondent may not directly address or question one another. The complainant will be given the opportunity to present their case first, and will then be questioned by members of the panel, and any questions suggested by the respondent. The respondent will speak next and present their statement, and answer the panel's questions as well as any suggested by the complainant. Following this, witnesses will be presented, and the panel and both parties may engage in questioning of the witnesses. After the questioning of witnesses concludes, both parties will make closing statements, and the panel will close the hearing for deliberation.
At hearings, respondents are entitled to the presence of a support person of their own choosing. Sexual misconduct allegations can carry very serious consequences that may affect a student's future career, both academic and professional. Because of these potential consequences, students should select an attorney to serve as their support person during the investigation and any subsequent hearing. An attorney will not only be able to ensure that a student's rights are protected throughout the Title IX disciplinary process at Haverford College but also assist students throughout their hearings. An attorney will have specific skills and knowledge of argument and evidence, which can greatly influence the outcome of a hearing. In addition, if any related adverse consequences stem from the reporting of the allegations at Haverford College, an attorney can serve as an accused student's legal guide.
Haverford College Appeals
If a hearing results in an unfavorable outcome students may make an appeal. Appeals must be submitted within seven (7) business days. Appeals may only be on the grounds of new evidence.
If you or your student is facing sexual misconduct allegations or Title IX charges at Haverford College, contact the LLF Law Firm today.
