If you're a student at a college or university in New Jersey and you find yourself facing a Title IX hearing, it's critical to take necessary steps well in advance of the hearing itself. Prior to the hearing, the school prepared an investigation report. Prior to it being finalized, it needs to be responded to as strongly and as effectively as possible. All necessary documentation, evidence, and information would have to be included in that final investigation report at a minimum, text messages, social media posts, pictures, videos, witness statements, a toxicology report if consent is an issue, or forensic evaluation, a polygraph examination.
Once finalized, it's presented to the and reviewed by the panel, so the hearing panel has a strong sense of the case before the hearing even takes place. Attacking the accuser's credibility is often key throughout the process, including at the hearing, so questions would bear that in mind for the accuser and their witnesses. The accused and the accused witnesses would also have to be prepped and prepared accordingly. Any potential expert witnesses and opening and closing statement would need to be prepared, any potential missteps and pitfalls that may take place during the course of the hearing, a party would need to be prepared for also. The panel itself would have to be considered for any bias or potential conflict of interest. An attorney advisor can help with all of these steps and it can help maximize the prospect of success, both in advance and at a Title IX hearing itself.
