In 2014, Mukund Vengalattore, a physics professor at Cornell, had a misconduct claim made against him. This came from a graduate student during his tenure review. The university launched a Title IX investigation, found him responsible, and denied him tenure. Vengalattore argued that the process was biased, violated his due process rights, and refuted the claims.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit reinstated some of his claims after years of legal battles. Then, the case ended in a settlement. While the terms are confidential, this resolution raises concerns about faculty rights in Title IX cases.

Allegations under Title IX can cripple a faculty member's career. Without a fair process, the accused risk losing tenure, jobs, and reputation. The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team has helped faculty in Title IX cases. We work to ensure faculty receive fair treatment. Call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or message us online to discuss your case.

Understanding Title IX and Faculty Disciplinary Actions

Title IX is a federal law aimed at preventing sex-based discrimination in education. It protects students and faculty, but enforcing it has led to issues of fairness in university discipline. Faculty accused under Title IX usually face investigations that are not like legal ones. This can lead to unfair treatment.

Key concerns in faculty Title IX cases include:

• Universities may limit the accused's ability to cross-examine accusers or challenge evidence. This can hinder their defense and make it hard to correct inaccuracies.
• The presence of bias can skew and taint the processes and outcomes within case management. Federal guidelines can pressure universities to favor complainants, affecting investigation and hearing neutrality.
• A Title IX investigation can have lasting effects, regardless of the outcome. Accused faculty often suffer reputational damage, tenure denials, and trouble finding future jobs.

Faculty members must understand how universities conduct these investigations to protect their careers.

How Universities Handle Title IX Investigations

When a faculty member is accused under Title IX, universities follow a set process to investigate and decide if a violation occurred. This process often includes several phases.

Key steps in a Title IX investigation include:

• The accused faculty member is formally notified of the complaint and the allegations. Schools set strict deadlines for responses, so prompt action is crucial.
• Investigators collect statements, review documents, and interview. This phase involves input from the complainant, colleagues, students, and other relevant parties.
• A panel or administrator reviews the findings to determine if disciplinary action is necessary. Some schools allow cross-examination, while others rely on investigator reports.
• Upon discovery of a violation, consequences range from reprimands to termination. Faculty usually may appeal, but processes differ by institution.

A mismanaged response can lead to severe consequences, so it's vital for faculty to understand their rights.

How an Attorney Can Help

Navigating a Title IX investigation without legal help can be daunting. Universities have their own policies, and faculty may not get the same protection as in legal settings. A skilled attorney helps universities follow due process. They support faculty in creating a solid defense.

If you are a faculty member facing a Title IX investigation, acting quickly is crucial. The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team has extensive experience handling Title IX cases. Call the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or message us online to discuss your case.