Drexel University takes a firm stance on any Title IX violations and other accusations of Sexual Misconduct. The University's disciplinary policies on these are upheld and enforced by the University's Title IX Coordinator, and listed in a separate policy, from the University's established Student Code of Conduct, known as OED-3.
Drexel University Title IX Policy
When a student makes a Sexual Misconduct complaint against another, the Title IX disciplinary proceedings begin. The student that initiates the complaint is known as the complainant, while the student with the alleged violations is known as the respondent. The University will begin an investigation. During this time, for the safety of the complainant, certain interim measures may apply to the respondent, such as "no contact orders," class changes, changes to residence, and interim suspensions in certain instances. Following the investigation phase, if the respondent chooses, they may admit responsibility and accept the sanctions that accompany it. If not, the process will move forward to a hearing.
Hearings
Hearings will be held by a University staff conduct board or an external adjudicator selected by the University's Title IX Coordinator, depending on the seriousness of the circumstances. At hearings, both complainant and respondent will have the ability to make introductory remarks. Following this, the hearing authority will hear witness testimony and present questions to the witnesses and parties involved. The parties may not directly question one another, but can suggest questions to the hearing authority to ask of witnesses or the opposing party. Following this, both parties will present their closing statements and the hearing authority will retire to deliberate. The standard of decision making used will be "a preponderance of evidence." Student will receive the outcome of their hearing in writing.
Student are entitled to an advisor of their choosing. This advisor should be an attorney. When a student faces Title IX allegations, it is not only their academic future that is in distress; a finding of responsibility for Title IX charges can have profound consequences, both short and long-term. An attorney's counsel at a hearing can offer a student insight into methods of argument and questioning used in the courtroom, and can strongly change the outcome of a hearing. Having an attorney early on in the process can greatly help a student negotiate their charges from the University. The earlier an attorney is involved, the more prepared the student will be for their prospective hearing. An attorney will also be able to advise and counsel the accused the regarding any related adverse consequences that may result from Drexel University's proceedings.
Appeals
In the event of an unfavorable outcome, students can make an appeal. Appeals must be made within ten calendar days of the outcome. The grounds for appeal include a dispute of the severity of sanctions, a claim of improper procedure, or new information that was previously unavailable at the hearing.
If you or your student is currently facing Title IX charges or allegations of sexual misconduct at Drexel University, contact the LLF Law Firm today.
