Lackawanna College does not tolerate acts of sexual misconduct within its student body. The College upholds a policy regarding Title IX and Sexual Misconduct that outlines what acts are considered sexual misconduct, and what steps the University takes for both prevention and discipline when a student is alleged to have committed an act of sexual misconduct. The processes used for taking action against acts of sexual misconduct are separate and more heavily scrutinized than those used for acts of standard misconduct.
Lackawanna College Sexual Misconduct Process
When a student files a complaint regarding sexual misconduct with a University official, the process for resolving the incident will begin. Lackawanna College offers both informal and formal resolutions to incidents of sexual misconduct. Informal resolutions are of a mediative nature, and generally offer remedial solutions to resolve a situation, instead of formal disciplinary actions from the College. However, informal processes will not be used if a student is accused of sexual assault or other potentially violent acts. In addition, the complainant may end the informal process at any time and pursue the formal stage of the complaint process. When a complaint is filed, the College may take interim measures against the accused student as necessary. These measures can include changes in class or work-study schedules, reassignment of campus housing, no-contact orders, and possibly even a temporary suspension. The College will make use of an investigative process to resolve incidents of sexual misconduct. The formal option is pursued by a student making a report directly to the Office of the Title IX Coordinator. Investigations will consist of meetings with staff selected by the Title IX Coordinator with efforts made to resolve the situation as appropriate, in light of the nature of the allegations, and to prevent further acts of sexual misconduct as necessary.
Lackawanna College handles allegations of sexual misconduct on a case-by-base. As such, the College does not provide a detailed process for what its procedures are, and does not provide indication of what students may face throughout the investigative process until it has already begun. Sexual misconduct allegations are incredibly serious and can result in long-term negative consequences for a student's academic and professional careers. For these reasons, students may find it helpful to receive counsel from an attorney behind the scenes. An attorney will be able to help protect a student's rights throughout an investigation and during any meetings with the College. In addition, an attorney can also serve as a legal guide to a student should any immediate adverse consequences arise from the initial reporting of the allegations at Lackawanna College.
Appeals at Lackawanna College
In the event of an outcome that results in dismissal, students are entitled to an appeal. An appeal must be submitted within three (3) business days of the notice of the dismissal. The College will then assemble an appeals board to conduct a review of the appeal. The board will meet to discuss the appeal, and the student must appear at the hearing to defend their appeal.
If you or your student is facing sexual misconduct allegations or Title IX charges at Lackawanna College, contact LLF Law Firm today.
