Felician University handles instances of sexual misconduct within its student body with a high degree of strictness. The University handles these incidents through its Sexual Misconduct Policy. The process for resolving complaints regarding acts of sexual misconduct is separate from those regarding acts of standard or academic misconduct.
Sexual Misconduct at Felician University
When a student notifies a University authority of an incident of sexual misconduct, the University will initiate the process according to its guidelines. Throughout the process, the student who initiates the complaint will be known as the "complainant," while the student who faces the allegations will be known as the "accused." The University employs an investigative process to come to conclusive resolutions regarding any incidents of sexual misconduct. The University may attempt to determine whether or not special measures must be taken to ensure the safety of the complainant.
Investigative Process
An investigator or an investigative team will be assigned to review the case. Investigations will consist of several one-on-one interviews conducted with the parties associated with the situation, along with any witnesses suggested to the investigator. Interviews will be conducted in a continuous series, with each party given the chance to respond to information presented. Once the investigator believes that enough information to make a decision has been heard from both sides, an investigative report will be compiled and reviewed with representatives from the University's Office of Human Resources. The decision made will be one of four outcomes:
- There is sufficient evidence to show a violation
- There is insufficient evidence to show a violation
- Inappropriate behavior has occurred
- There is sufficient evidence to show that an allegation is false
Following this determination, the accused will be notified of the outcome, and if appropriate, sanctions will be assigned according to the University's guidelines.
Throughout the investigative process, students may be accompanied by a supporting individual, however, the University does not permit this individual to be an attorney. Sexual misconduct allegations are extremely serious and can carry long-lasting impacts on a student's academic and professional careers. For this reason, students should retain the services of an attorney who can aid them from behind the scenes. An attorney will have specialized knowledge of evidence and argument that students may use throughout the investigative process. Attorneys can also ensure that a student's rights are protected during the investigation. Finally, should any additional adverse consequences arise from the initial reporting of the allegations at Felician University, an attorney can serve as a student's legal guide through these matters.
Appeals At Felician University
Sexual misconduct allegations resolved through the process at Felician University are decided upon by what the University deems to be a thorough investigation. Because of this, decisions made by the investigator and Human Resources Office are final, per the University's policy.
If you or your student is facing Title IX charges or sexual misconduct allegations at Felician University, contact attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
