The College of New Jersey, or as it is more commonly known, TCNJ, takes a firm stance against incidents of sexual misconduct that arise within its student body. The College handles instances of sexual misconduct allegations through its Title IX Policy. Title IX violations are handled by the College's Title IX office. Incidents of sexual misconduct are resolved using a separate process from standard conduct violations, and are treated with a higher degree of severity and scrutiny, due to their nature.
Disciplinary Procedures
When a complaint is filed against a student, the student that initiates the complaint is known as the "reporter," while the student who is the subject of the complaint will be known as the "respondent." Once a complaint is filed, the University will begin an investigative process to obtain the facts of the incident for discussion at the hearing. The Title IX coordinator will oversee investigations into these matters. During the University's investigation period, certain interim measures may be imposed on the respondent. For example, a "no contact" directive may be ordered for the safety of the reporter; an interim suspension may also be imposed in certain instances.
Incidents of sexual misconduct will be resolved during the investigative process. The investigators of the case will interview all witnesses, and both the reporter and respondent separately. Both parties will also be able to submit witnesses and information to the investigators. The investigators will then create a summary of the facts and information of the case, which will be given to both parties. After the parties receive the summary of the investigation, they will be given an opportunity to respond to the facts once more. Both parties may also suggest further evidence and information for consideration as well. After this, the investigators will make the determination of whether or not a respondent is responsible for violating the policy.
Accused students are permitted to have the presence of an advisor at all meetings with investigators. Sexual misconduct allegations can have far-reaching negative consequences on a student's academic and professional goals. TCNJ takes instances of sexual misconduct very seriously. For this reason, students should select an attorney to serve as their advisor. An attorney can help to ensure that a student's rights are protected throughout the investigative process. Also, an attorney's specialized knowledge of evidence and argument can be incredibly beneficial to a student, and may have a strong influence on the outcome of a student's hearing. In addition to this, an attorney will be able to walk students through any adverse consequences that may arise from the reporting of an instance of sexual misconduct at TCNJ.
Appeals
Should the investigation result in an unfavorable outcome, students may make an appeal. Appeals must be submitted within five (5) business days of the outcome notification. Appeals should make the request for a review of the investigative process, a review of the information, a review of the sanctions, or to submit new information.
If you or your student is facing Title IX allegations or sexual misconduct charges at TCNJ, contact attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
