At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the safety of every member of its academic community is paramount. The University has taken lots of precautions to protect every student from harm. Its goal is to create an educational environment that promotes the quality of life for everyone.
As such, the University has measures in place to maintain a community free from sexual violence and harassment. Recent changes to Title IX on a federal level have influenced how the University of Wisconsin-Madison does so. Still, the administration remains committed to investigating all allegations of sexual misconduct in an effort to keep students safe.
If your student learns that they face accusations of sexual misconduct, they need to be prepared for such an investigation. As the University of Wisconsin-Madison analyzes the evidence against your student and prepares to mete out disciplinary measures, the University needs to remain accountable to your child's rights.
Unfortunately, it might fall to you to make sure that happens.
With a competent, savvy legal team at your side, you can take proactive actions now to protect your child's rights during a sexual misconduct investigation at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Doing so is the best way to protect your child's bright future from fading because of past indiscretions.
University of Wisconsin-Madison's Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policies
Prohibited conduct at the University of Wisconsin-Madison includes the following actions, according to the University's Office of Compliance:
- Sexual Harassment
- Sexual Assault
- Dating Violence
- Domestic Violence
- Stalking
- Sexual Exploitation
- Retaliation
- Providing false information to a reporting or investigatory office
- Refusal to comply with a reasonable request on a university matter
As there is a broad range of actions that your school may find punishable under its Title IX or sexual misconduct policies, you must find a legal advisor well-versed in these types of cases. Sometimes, the charge may be stark and the original offense nuanced. Other times, the allegation may be completely false. Whether the accusation has any basis or not, the restorative and punitive measures that the University may recommend could have a very destructive effect on your child's future.
What is the Title IX or Sexual Misconduct Grievance Process at the University of Wisconsin-Madison?
Once one student makes an allegation of sexual misconduct against another, the grievance process at the University of Wisconsin-Madison starts. After the information makes its way to the school's named Title IX coordinator, the school will make a decision as to procedure.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has two main ways of dealing with sexual misconduct: a Formal Investigation, or an Alternate Response.
- Suppose the University deems that the main issue is simply to stop the problematic behavior from continuing. In that case, a university official may simply speak with the respondent (or the accused person) before recommending light restorative measures. The University will likely take this approach in matters that are less severe, such as harassment or stalking.
- If your child stands accused of misconduct or violent infractions, the University will launch an investigation, followed by a formal hearing. After this hearing, the University will recommend punitive measures, such as suspension, probation, or expulsion.
It's important to remember that regardless of the specific immediate punishment that your school metes out, you need to fight these charges. Having sexual misconduct on your student's permanent record could affect their chances for future schooling opportunities, scholarships, or even applications for their dream job down the line.
Even if the punishments seem minor, you need to fight this now. An experienced legal advisor can help you do just that.
The Benefits of Working with Your Own Top-Tier Legal Assistance
When your student first learns that they face sexual misconduct charges, the University of Wisconsin-Madison may respond with a seemingly-generous offer. They may say that they will lend you one of their school lawyers to represent you and your family.
It's never a good idea to accept this. You need to remember that your school's lawyers will, ultimately, be loyal to the University first. Unfortunately, if you share any information with them while you prepare for a hearing that could benefit the school, the University lawyer could plan to use that against you. Additionally, if you opt for using so-called school resources, you'll get a lawyer that's investing in you at a very minimal level.
Hire your own counsel instead. You'll enjoy increased peace of mind knowing that your legal advisor will always have your back - and you'll enjoy the following benefits, as well:
- Expertly-drafted documents and paperwork filed on-time
- An empathetic advisor to accompany you to all meetings for aggressive representation
- A helpful analysis of all evidence against your child, as well as an in-depth knowledge of the ins and outs of school discipline regulations and codes of conduct
- The confidence of knowing that you're doing the best thing possible to protect your child's future
Joseph D. Lento Is A Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Advisor Ready to Help You
If your student faces Title IX or sexual misconduct allegations at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, you need to act quickly to protect their rights. Your child has the right to timely notifications regarding charges, the right to a presumption of innocence, and the right to seek expert representation. Guarding these rights - and, more importantly, holding the University accountable to them - can make the difference between a trial won and unpleasant punishments that could have lifelong effects.
Navigating due process while protecting your own rights can be overwhelming. It's best to have legal advisors ready to help you - particularly a legal team that has extensive experience defending students who need a second chance. Luckily, at the Lento Law Firm, that's precisely what we offer. For years, Joseph D. Lento has successfully defended students across the nation during their Title IX or sexual misconduct cases. Whether the University of Wisconsin-Madison adjudicates your child's case through a hearing or an investigation, Joseph D. Lento can do the same for you.
For more information, call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-555-3686 or contact us through our online form.
