Ursinsus College handles all instances of sexual misconduct that arise within its student body with swift and potentially severe action. The College has a zero tolerance policy on these instances, as outlined in its Sexual Misconduct Policy. The College will pursue disciplinary action in these instances using special procedures for sexual misconduct cases that are separate from those used in instances of standard misconduct. The Title IX Coordinator has the say in how any given case will proceed.
Ursinus College Sexual Misconduct Policy
When a report alleging sexual misconduct is forwarded to College officials, the process will begin. Throughout any proceedings, the student who initiates the complaint will be known as the "complainant," while the student who is facing allegations will be known as the "respondent." The College may conduct a brief assessment of the situation once the complaint is filed to determine if any interim actions are necessary. This may include suspension from residence halls, restricted campus access, no-contact orders, or even suspension from the College. Sexual misconduct allegations will most often be resolved through an "Investigative Resolution" process.
Investigative Resolutions
Investigations will be led and conducted by persons trained and selected by the Title IX Coordinator. The investigation itself will consist of separate meetings for the complainant and respondent with the investigator as appropriate. Both the complainant and the respondent will be able to present their own versions of the events. There will be several meetings, as parties will not interact with one another directly, but will be given a chance to respond to the statements of the opposing party and offer evidence. The Investigator will also meet with any pertinent witnesses suggested by either party as well. After all information has been gathered during the course of the investigation, a final report will be summarized. The final report will also include any responses from both parties to the report and investigation. A decision and resolution will be reached by the Title IX coordinator based on the findings in the report.
Students involved in the investigative process are entitled to have an advisor of their own choosing. Sexual misconduct allegations are taken very seriously by the College. In addition, these allegations can have very serious long term consequences on a student's career, both academic and professional. Because of this, students should seek the counsel of an attorney to assist them throughout the process. An attorney can help ensure that a student's rights remain protected throughout the Title IX investigation and disciplinary proceedings. Attorneys can also assist students through any adverse consequences that may arise from the initial allegations being reported at Ursinus College as well.
Appeals at Ursinus College
If the investigation results in an unfavorable outcome, students may make an appeal. Appeals should be submitted within seven (7) days of the date the outcome letter is sent. The grounds for appeal must be an error in procedure, new evidence, a claim that evidence does not support the findings, or a dispute of the sanction.
If you or your student is facing sexual misconduct allegations or Title IX charges at Ursinus College, contact LLF Law Firm today.
