If campus administrators receive an allegation that a student has potentially violated rules relating to Title IX they will begin an inquiry. Allegations such as those of sexual misconduct are investigated as the first phase of the disciplinary process. These matters involve a campus hearing where the accused will have an opportunity to respond to the complaint. Campus staff policies require that all parties involved are treated fairly; however, many times those accused find that this does not occur. Violators may potentially face sanctions and penalties. Students facing such allegations are encouraged to consider retaining legal counsel. Joseph D. Lento is a seasoned attorney that will aggressively defend the accused.
What are the Title IX Rules?
Institutions of higher learning are unlikely to risk having their much needed federal education funds revoked for not complying with Title IX provisions. Complaints regarding incidents of sexual harassment, assault, or other related forms of misconduct are swiftly investigated. If their initial inquiry reveals that the allegations have merit, the administration will begin their formal disciplinary procedures. The U.S. Department of Education's division known as the Office of Civil Rights is responsible for overseeing Title IX.
University Requirements
Colleges and universities create procedures and policies outlining their Title IX disciplinary process. There are some guidelines that must be adhered to as follows:
- All students should have access to these written provisions
- These guidelines encompass alleged acts such as those of sexual misconduct against students, staff, and others on the campus
- All of the parties involved are able to submit evidence and witness testimony
- The administration has a responsibility to ensure the process is conducted in a “reasonably prompt time frame”
- All parties must be formally notified of rulings concurrently
What Types of Sanctions Are Possible?
All potential sanctions and penalties that the administration may impose are documented in their annual safety report. Common sanctions include imposing a disciplinary probation period, a suspension, or dismissal from the university. Taking the necessary steps to achieve a favorable outcome at the hearing is critical, but at times, an appeal may be necessary. If the grounds for an appeal are met, an adverse decision can be appealed.
Retaining an Attorney
It is important to select an attorney that is familiar with these types of disciplinary processes. Being prepared in Title IX actions is extremely critical. Your attorney will review the complaint and relevant evidence as part of producing a comprehensive strategy for your defense. Your attorney may also enter negotiations with members of the administration anytime during the process. Other activity includes gathering evidence that supports your defense such as from witnesses or expert testimony. This preparation will include drafting proper responses to the questions that are likely to be asked at the hearing.
Lawyer Role in the Hearing
One of the critical benefits of retaining legal counsel in these matters is that you will be better prepared. It is important that you are able to deliver impactful opening and closing statements at the hearing. Based on the format of the hearing, there may be an opportunity to cross-examine adverse parties. Your lawyer will seek to ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the proceedings and are able to respond appropriately when unforeseen developments occur.
Attorney Effectively Represents Students in Title IX Defense in Louisiana
When facing potential sanctions that have long-term ramifications it is best to have sound legal assistance. Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm know how to effectively challenge these types of allegations. For students in Louisiana and their parents, contact the office today for a consultation at (888) 535-3686.
- Acadiana Technical College Lafayette Campus
- Baton Rouge College
- Baton Rouge Community College
- Blue Cliff College Alexandria
- Blue Cliff College Houma
- Blue Cliff College Metairie
- Blue Cliff College Shreveport
- Bossier Parish Community College
- Capital Area Technical College Baton Rouge Campus
- Career Technical College Shreveport
- Centenary College of Louisiana
- Central Louisiana Technical College Alexandria Campus
- Court Reporting Institute of Louisiana
- Delgado Community College
- Delta School of Business and Technology
- Dillard University
- Grambling State University
- Herzing University Kenner
- ITT Technical Institute Baton Rouge
- ITT Technical Institute Saint Rose
- L E Fletcher Technical Community College
- Louisiana College
- Louisiana Delta Community College Monroe Campus
- Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
- Louisiana State University Eunice
- Louisiana State University Alexandria
- Louisiana State University Shreveport
- Louisiana Tech University
- Loyola University New Orleans
- McCann School of Business & Technology Monroe
- McNeese State University
- Medvance Institute Baton Rouge
- Nicholls State University
- Northeast Louisiana Technical College Delta Ouachita Campus
- Northshore Technical Community College
- Northwest Louisiana Technical College
- Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Nunez Community College
- Our Lady of Holy Cross College
- Our Lady of the Lake College
- Remington College Baton Rouge Campus
- Remington College Lafayette Campus
- Remington College Shreveport Campus
- River Parishes Community College
- Saint Joseph Seminary College
- South Central Louisiana Technical College Young Memorial Campus
- South Louisiana Community College
- Southeastern Louisiana University
- Southern University and A & M College
- Southern University at New Orleans
- Southern University at Shreveport
- Sowela Technical Community College
- Tulane University of Louisiana
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- University of Louisiana Monroe
- University of New Orleans
- University of Phoenix Baton Rouge
- University of Phoenix Lafayette
- University of Phoenix Louisiana Campus
- University of Phoenix Shreveport Bossier
- Virginia College
- Xavier University of Louisiana
Winning a Title IX hearing can mean the difference between achieving one's academic and professional goals or having these goals upended. When accused of sexual misconduct, it is critical to not take the matter lightly and to instead vigorously defend against the allegations. Title IX cases can be won, and Joseph D. Lento has a decade of experience passionately fighting for the future of his clients at colleges and universities throughout the nation and winning. He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead, prioritizes his clients' needs and well-being. Joseph Lento is a licensed attorney in New Jersey, is admitted as an attorney pro hac vice in state and federal court if needed when representing clients nationwide, and serves as a Title IX advisor and educational consultant to students facing disciplinary cases in Louisiana and throughout the nation. Make certain your or your student's interests are protected - Contact National Title IX attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
