Princeton University oversees all incidents related to sexual misconduct through the use of its Title IX policy. The policy is managed and enforced by the office of the University's Title IX Coordinator. The policy differs slightly from the University's approach to standard instances of misconduct, and takes a firmer stance on any violations that may arise.
Princeton University Title IX Policy & Procedures
The process for adjudicating and enforcing Princeton University's Title IX policies begins when a complaint is filed to the office of the Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator will then decide if the matter falls within the bounds of the policy, or if it should resolved by another office. Students who file the complaint are known throughout the process as the "complainant," while students who are facing allegations will be known as the "respondent." Once a complaint is filed, the University may impose certain interim measures on the respondent, such as temporary relocation, class rescheduling, or even suspension. The University will then appoint an investigative panel for seeking resolution to these matters.
Investigative panels are comprised of three members, who are selected from University staff assigned to handle Title IX cases. Instead of a hearing process, such as one used for behavioral misconduct, Princeton University employs an investigative resolution process. The investigative panel will meet with the complainant and respondent separately. They will also meet with any relevant witnesses as well. Following their initial round of meetings, the panel will compose an investigative report of the findings and facts of the case, which will be provided to all parties involved. The parties may then meet with the panel once more to discuss the report. In addition, the parties may also respond to the opposing party's claims as well. The panel will designate an appropriate time frame for this phase to take place. Once this phase has concluded, the investigative panel will make a decision on whether or not the Title IX policy was violated. The standard of decision-making used will be "a preponderance of the evidence."
Students are entitled to the presence of an adviser at their meetings with the investigative panel. Sexual misconduct allegations carry serious consequences for students. Some of these consequences are far reaching, and can affect a students personal, academic, and future career goals. For this reason, students should choose an attorney to serve as their adviser. Attorneys can offer valuable insight to students undergoing the investigative process, and bring their courtroom experience to the level of the University investigation. In addition to this, an attorney will be able to assist students through any potential adverse or further consequences that may follow from the initial allegations being reported at Princeton University.
Princeton University Appeals
In the event of an unfavorable outcome, students have a chance to make an appeal. Appeals must be on the grounds of new information, unfairness in the process, or a disproportionate penalty. Students have five (5) business days from the outcome to make their appeal.
If you or your student is facing Title IX charges or sexual misconduct allegations at Princeton University, contact attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
