In Wyoming, there are currently 10 colleges, universities and other postsecondary institutions with roughly 18,000 full-time students. All schools that receive federal funding are responsible for investigating all accusations they receive that potentially violate Title IX guidelines. Established in 1972, Title IX was implemented by the U.S. Department of Education prohibiting sexual discrimination. If the allegations appear to have merit, a campus disciplinary process is conducted. Students who are accused have an opportunity to answer the claims in a hearing. All parties involved in a Title IX investigation are to be treated in an equitable manner; however, often the rights of the accused are largely overlooked. The Lento Law Firm represents students accused of actions relating to sexual misconduct.
What is Title IX?
Colleges and universities are responsible for having a Title IX coordinator or administrator. In today's increasingly litigious social environment those who face allegations of violating the rights of another student are encouraged to retain experienced legal counsel.
Institutional Requirements
Schools are generally free to develop their own internal process for conducting these investigations. Federal guidelines do insist on a few basic requirements including the following:
- Policies must be clearly established in writing and available to all students
- Campus administrators must respond to allegations that involve students, staff and all others on campus
- All parties are eligible for a hearing as part of due process
- These matters are to be addressed in a “reasonably prompt time frame” by Title IX coordinators
- All parties must be formally notified of rulings concurrently
Possible Sanctions
The school publishes an annual safety report that contains the current potential sanctions that may be imposed on violators. These sanctions commonly include placing the student on probation, imposing a suspension, or dismissal from the university.
Why Retain a Lawyer?
At hearings, the accused has a right to have an advisor accompany them. You will largely benefit from legal representation in terms of preparation. The attorney will impartially review the allegations, evidence and other key factors as a third-party. This information will be critical in developing a strategic defense. Your attorney may seek additional evidence and/or expert testimony in support of your defense.
How Attorneys Help in a Hearing
It is critical that you are prepared to deliver effective opening and closing statements. When responding to questions that you are likely to encounter, you will be more confident. In certain hearing formats, there may be the possibility of cross-examining parties. This legal representation will help to make certain that you are treated fairly throughout the process. When unanticipated developments occur during the proceedings you will be in a better position to cope with them. At any time during the disciplinary process, your attorney may engage in negotiations with administrators to seek a mutually beneficial solution.
Attorney for College & University Students in Title IX Disciplinary Actions in Wyoming
Are you a student or parent of a student currently facing allegations of misconduct that violate Title IX provisions in Wyoming? Attorney Joseph D. Lento is extremely familiar with these actions and delivers effective student disciplinary defense and also is able to help with appealing adverse rulings. Such expertise is particularly important now because many proposed changes to Title IX provisions are pending from federal regulators. Those in need of solid legal representation are encouraged to contact the office at (888) 535-3686.
- Casper College
- Central Wyoming College
- College America Cheyenne
- Eastern Wyoming College
- Laramie County Community College
- Northwest College
- Sheridan College
- University of Phoenix Cheyenne Campus
- University of Wyoming
- Western Wyoming Community College
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 Wyoming and throughout the nation. Make certain your or your student's interests are protected - Contact National Title IX attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
