Dartmouth College is an Ivy League school founded back in 1769 that currently has an overall enrollment of roughly 6,500 students. The administration has goals and values that include a commitment to diversity and treating others with “mutual respect.” These goals are consistent with the federal provisions related to Title IX, which require schools to properly address all allegations related to sexual discrimination.
Title IX Coordinator at Dartmouth College
The Title IX Coordinator is located in 005 Parkhurst Hall, where complaints may be made or questions may be asked in person. Dartmouth College also has two Deputy Title IX Coordinators with specific functions. The first is primarily responsible for managing the intake process at the beginning of an investigation and the other is tasked with training and educating the community regarding Title IX.
Additional Resources for Making Complaints
The College also has options for those wishing to submit complaints anonymously over the phone or online. Other resources available for complaints include the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights, and local agencies of law enforcement.
How Complaints are Handled at Dartmouth College
After receiving a complaint, the Title IX Coordinator will establish (confirm) that the College does have “disciplinary authority” in the matter. This process will be completed within five business days. The administration may implement interim measures that they deem to be appropriate to protect the safety of parties involved and the community.
Options for Resolution
The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for conducting an Initial Assessment process. Based on these findings, the matter may be referred for either an informal or formal process of resolution. Informal resolutions do not involve imposing significant disciplinary sanctions on the accused. Formal resolutions are subject to a more detailed investigative process that culminates in a hearing with potential sanctions being imposed.
Role of Advisors at Dartmouth College
Parties have a right to choose an Advisor that will support and assist them in both formal and informal proceedings. The College will consider the Advisor's availability in scheduling meetings, hearings, etc. Advisors may not also be “fact witnesses” informal investigations.
Investigation Process
All parties will meet separately with those conducting investigations. The evidence that may be relevant includes documents, photos, electronic communications, and more. All evidence and facts are compiled into a report that is available for the parties to review.
Evidence from witnesses is admitted when the information is considered as relevant. Both parties may submit the name and contact information of potential witnesses. Witnesses may not participate solely in assessing the “individual's character.”
Hearing Panel
A Title IX Hearing Panel of three designated employees is responsible for equitably reviewing all evidence, making rulings, and imposing sanctions when needed. The hearings are facilitated by a Hearing Panel Chair. Both the Complainant and Respondent are permitted to address the Hearing Panel.
The parties are permitted to question those that were involved in the investigation. The parties do not question each other directly. All questions are submitted to the panel for approval.
Standards of Evidence
Most claims of misconduct are evaluated using a preponderance of the evidence standard, which is employed at Dartmouth College. Recently, federal guidelines were expanded to also allow for a clear and convincing evidence standard to be employed. Both options are a much lesser standard than beyond a reasonable doubt that applies to criminal matters.
Appeals Process Summary
- A party seeking to appeal must notify the Title IX Coordinator within three business days in writing
- There are two grounds that justify an appeal
- If a “substantial procedural error” occurred that could alter the ruling
- Evidence that was not previously available has surfaced
- Having assistance from an experienced attorney is critical to ensure the appeal is compliant and concise
Representation for Students in Title IX Disciplinary Matters
Completing post-secondary education is generally a part of overall long-term goals and aspirations. Students and their loved ones might be devoting significant time and economic resources toward achieving this goal. In today's ultra-competitive educational market, institutions are well-aware of the importance of having a good image and reputation. Administrations may have increasingly higher standards regarding student behavior, cohesiveness, and academic integrity.
Students faced with allegations of wrongdoing may be subjected to an investigation. This process is often the responsibility of very busy administrators. These administrators may take “shortcuts” or somehow fail to properly recognize the rights of accused parties. When you retain seasoned legal representation, you are much more likely to have your rights to due process protected.
Dartmouth Title IX Student Lawyer
The Lento Law Firm effectively defends the rights of students in Title IX disciplinary actions. There are potential long-term consequences that can hinder your future. Contact the office for additional information today at (888) 535-3686.
