LaSalle University takes a firm stance on instances of sexual misconduct that occur within its student body. The University oversees the administration of disciplinary action through a separate process from its policy for managing standard misconduct. This process is maintained and enforced by the University's Director of Community Standards, with certain special regulations set forth for handling instances of sexual misconduct.
LaSalle University Disciplinary Process For Title IX Violations
Preliminary Hearing
At a preliminary hearing, students will undergo a brief explanation of the charges they are faced with, and the University's disciplinary process. At this stage, if the charge is not of a "high degree of seriousness" in the view of the University, the Hearing Office may make a decision based upon what evidence is available at that time. If the decision is unsatisfactory, the student may elect to adjudicate the matter further by bringing the matter to the level of an administrative hearing. Regardless of how the University perceives the matter, accused students and parents must understand that all Title IX allegations are of a "high degree of seriousness." In this regard, and although an accused student's advisor cannot accompany the accused to the preliminary hearing, an accused student must make certain their interests are protected before participating in the University's initial Title IX hearing.
Administrative Hearing
An administrative hearing is a higher level hearing for students that demand further adjudication for their matters. Hearings will be held and decided upon by an Administrative Hearing Officer assigned to handle Title IX cases. Both the complainant and the accused student will be able to make opening statements. Following this, the hearing will proceed through a phase of evidence and witness presentation. Both parties are prohibited from directly questioning one another, and respective witnesses. Instead, parties must suggest questions for the Hearing Officer to ask. In addition, the Hearing Officer will question all relevant parties and their witnesses in order to gather information. Following the presentation of evidence and testimony, both parties will be able to make closing statements. After this, the Hearing Officer will close the hearing, and render a decision in writing. The standard for making decisions used will be "a preponderance of evidence."
When a student faces allegations of sexual misconduct, they are entitled to presence of an advisor at their hearings. Sexual misconduct allegations can carry long-term and drastic negative impacts on a student's academic and professional career. For this reason, it is of utmost importance that a student select an attorney to serve as their advisor in a hearing. An attorney can provide a student with knowledge of courtroom skills in methods of questioning and argument construction that can greatly influence the outcome of a hearing. In addition, an attorney will be able to assist the student in any additional matters or consequences that may occur from the from the initial reporting at LaSalle University.
LaSalle University Appeals
In the event of an unfavorable outcome, students are offered a chance at an appeal. Appeals must be made within 5 calendar days of the outcome of the hearing. The grounds for appeal are arbitrary or capricious sanctioning, an unfair hearing, a claim that certain evidence was not reviewed, or newly available evidence for review.
If you or your student is currently facing sexual misconduct allegations or Title IX charges at LaSalle University, contact the LLF Law Firm today.
