Mount Aloysius College takes any acts of sexual misconduct that arise within its student body very seriously. The College upholds a Sexual Misconduct / Violence Policy within the pages of its Student Handbook. The policy lists behaviors that constitute sexual misconduct, as well as what responses the College will take once allegations of sexual misconduct are reported. The procedures for disciplining students who violate this policy are similar to those used in cases of standard misconduct, however, certain different measures will apply due to the nature of these incidents.
Mount Aloysius Sexual Misconduct Process
The process for resolving incidents of sexual misconduct begins once a report is filed with a College authority. Once a report is received, the College will begin its investigation into the incident. The student who is the subject of the report will be notified in writing and will be scheduled for a brief meeting with an appropriate College representative. At the meeting, the charged student will be expected to enter a plea. If the accused student denies responsibility, the College will assemble a hearing board deemed appropriate by the College for hearing cases of sexual misconduct.
If the case is to move forward to a hearing, the College will first have both students attend a pre-board review. At this meeting, the student will be given information on how the hearing process works, and what the consequences will be should they be held responsible for violations. At hearings, the student who files the report will be known as "accuser," while the student facing allegations will be known simply as the "accused student." Hearings will not follow a particular order, and instead, proceed according to the discretion of the Conduct Officer overseeing the hearing. Although there is no set procedure, each party will, in theory, have certain rights guaranteed. Each party will have the opportunity to present their own supporting evidence and witnesses, and a right to cross-examination, though the parties will not be able to engage in direct questioning of one another.
Students may have a College community advisor at the hearings. Sexual misconduct allegations are very serious in nature and carry consequences that can threaten a student's future academic and career goals. Although there are limitations on the student's advisor for the hearing, a student may be assisted by an attorney at a pre-board review. An attorney can be of critical help throughout both the investigative process and during the preparation for a hearing. Attorneys can ensure a student's rights are protected and can offer coaching when the student must defend themselves at a hearing. An attorney can also ensure that the integrity of the Title IX investigation and disciplinary proceedings are upheld. In addition, should any adverse consequences follow the initial reporting of the allegations at Mount Aloysius College, an attorney can serve as a student's legal guide.
Appeals at Mount Aloysius
In the event of an unfavorable outcome, students may make an appeal. Appeals should be submitted within five (5) school days of the hearing outcome. Appeals must be made on the grounds of a claim that regulations were not followed or a claim that relevant evidence was not reviewed.
If you or your student is facing sexual misconduct allegations or Title IX charges at Mount Aloysius College, contact LLF Law Firm today.
