Students work tirelessly to get accepted into higher education institutions, and they must work even harder to maintain decent grades in order to achieve the ultimate goal: graduating with a degree. All the time spent you spend studying for exams, writing papers, and doing mountains of homework are all worth it when you get to walk across that stage in front of your family and friends. However, there are a number of obstacles that can prevent you from achieving this long-awaited goal.
Students who have been accused of violating their school's Title IX guidelines have a lot at stake. If found responsible for exhibiting discriminatory behavior, you are at risk of a range of consequences that could either prolong the time it takes to graduate or prevent you from graduating from your college or university altogether. Students at George Washington University and their parents should be aware of their school's Title IX policies and processes in regard to how a determination is made in a school setting. With a clear understanding of what you may be up against and the possible penalties that may be imposed, you will be able to make wise decisions that could make all the difference in the outcome of a school hearing.
For the purposes of this article, we will address (1) George Washington University's duties under Title IX, (2) the school's sexual misconduct policy, and (3) the Title IX process that you will undergo when facing Title IX violation allegations.
Title IX
Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender committed by and against students, staff, and faculty. It reinforces that anyone, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, national origin, or preferred gender identity, is entitled to the rights and protections that are provided by a school. Under Title IX, GWU is required to investigate and resolve all reported instances of gender-based discrimination.
George Washington University's Sexual Misconduct Policy
According to GWU's sexual misconduct policy, all reported cases of this misconduct in any form - sexual harassment, sexual assault, rape etc. - will be handled “firmly and fairly, and in a timely manner.” These “firm” repercussions consist of a suspension, or expulsion depending on the nature of a case.
The Title IX Process
Students who file a complaint pertaining to sexual misconduct are known as “complainants,” while alleged offenders are known as “respondents.” Whenever a complaint regarding sexual misconduct is filed, the process for resolving this incident should be immediately initiated by the school.
Investigations
Investigations launched by GWU will likely be led by the school's Title IX coordinator. It is her or her job to assigning an objective person to investigate your case. Once enough evidence is gathered, a hearing will be scheduled.
Hearings
The ultimate goal of a hearing is for a panel comprised of students, staff, and faculty to determine the guilt or innocence of a respondent based on the evidence. During a hearing, each party is granted the right to present evidence and witnesses that support their account of events, cross-examine each other and make a final statement regarding the case. After each side has been heard, the panel will deliberate and make a decision.
Title IX Advisor
If you are facing allegations of sexual misconduct or any other Title IX violation, you are allowed to choose an attorney of your liking. Choosing an attorney will make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Contact skilled legal professional Joseph D. Lento today for help.
Title IX violations and Title IX charges can change an accused student's life if not defended against properly and as early as possible during the disciplinary process, and Joseph D. Lento has nearly a decade of experience passionately fighting for the future of his clients at universities and colleges throughout the nation. He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead, prioritizes his clients' needs and well-being. Joseph Lento is a licensed attorney in New Jersey, is admitted as an attorney pro hac vice in state and federal court if needed when representing clients nationwide, and serves as a Title IX advisor to students facing disciplinary cases in Washington, D.C. and throughout the nation. Make certain your or your student's interests are protected - Joseph D. Lento can help.
