Title IX of the Education Amendments is a federal law that prohibits sexual misconduct in federally funded colleges and universities. Being accused of sexual assault, sexual harassment, rape, or any other form of sexual misconduct at SUNY at Purchase College is a Title IX violation that your school must resolve. If you are found “responsible” for this conduct, you could be exposed to pretty serious repercussions that could jeopardize your plans to graduate.
For the purposes of this article, we'll address SUNY at Purchase College's disciplinary process and why you need an attorney-advisor if you find yourself in this predicament.
SUNY at Purchase College's Disciplinary Process
According to Title IX, SUNY at Purchase College is required to adjudicate any cases of sexual misconduct brought to the institution's attention. The Department of Education urges compliant higher education institutions to respond to these accusations in a manner that is prompt and equitable. If the school fails to do so, its federal funding is at stake. Complainants (the reporter of the complaint) and especially respondents (the person accused of sexual misconduct) should understand that their school will approach their case with the utmost seriousness, and each party should follow suit.
Filing a Report
Students can file a report with the Title IX Office, the Office of Community Standards or the University Police Department involving an alleged violation related to sexual misconduct, sex discrimination, domestic violence, dating violence, and/or stalking.
The Investigation
In cases related to sexual misconduct, a fact-finding inquiry will be conducted by the Title IX Coordinator. This fact-finding inquiry will include interviews with accused students, complainants, reporting parties, witnesses, and anyone who may have information related to the alleged incident. The information gathered through these interviews will be documented.
The Hearing Process
The hearing will be led by a three-person panel, who will facilitate statements made by each party and a questioning period for clarification. When all statements are heard and all questions are answered, the panel will make a determination based on the preponderance of evidence.
Appeals
In all cases, there are three possible grounds for appeal:
• An alleged material violation of the established procedures in this Policy;
• Evidence is now available that could not have been obtained at the time of the initial hearing; or
• The sanction is excessive, inconsistent or insufficient with the nature of the offense.
The appeal request must be submitted to the Title IX Coordinator within five days of the date of the final determination letter.
New York Title IX Attorney
If you've been accused of sexual misconduct at SUNY at Purchase College, you can choose anyone to be your advisor in the Title IX process. It would be in your best interest to choose an attorney who can help you effectively navigate the process and build a solid defense for you. Contact attorney Joseph D. Lento today for help. at 888-535-3686.
