As a student, you work hard to maintain good grades and attend classes to achieve the goal of eventually graduating. However, there are a number of problems that can arise in a college setting that could sabotage this goal. If you or your child has been accused of violating Georgetown's Title IX regulations, you have a lot at stake. If found guilty responsible of exhibiting discriminatory behavior, you are at risk of suffering a range of repercussions that could either prolong the time it takes you to graduate or prevent you from graduating from this institution altogether. It's important that you understand what you're up against when facing these allegations.
For the purposes of this article, we will briefly address (1) Georgetown University's duties under Title IX, (2) the school's policies regarding sexual misconduct, and (3) the Title IX process that you will undergo if you are facing Title IX violation allegations.
What is Title IX?
Title IX is a federal civil right that prohibits discrimination on the premise of gender committed by or against students, staff, and faculty in federally funded educational institutions. Georgetown University is among the colleges and universities that receive some sort of financial support from the federal government, therefore it is required to comply with the law. Under Title IX, the school is obligated to investigate and take corrective action against students found responsible for exhibiting gender-based discrimination.
Georgetown University's Sexual Misconduct Policy
Sexual misconduct in all of its variations - sexual harassment, relationship violence, sexual assault, rape etc. - is considered gender-based discrimination under the realm of Title IX. Georgetown requires faculty and staff to report any instances of sexual assault, whether this be hearsay or if an alleged victim comes to any employee of the school out of secrecy. The school is required to handle sexual misconduct cases promptly and effectively.
The Title IX Process
During Title IX processes, students who file a report alleging sexual misconduct are known as “complainants.” On the other hand, alleged offenders listed in these reports are known as “respondents.” In the event that a complaint regarding a Title IX violation is filed, the process for resolving this incident should immediately be initiated by the school.
Investigations
Investigations will be led by the school's Title IX coordinator - a person who has been trained in Title IX processes. It is his or her's job to assign a person to investigate your case. Once this person has interviewed both parties and gotten enough evidence for clarification, a hearing will be scheduled.
Hearings
The goal of a hearing is to come to a determination that dictates whether you, as a respondent, are guilty or innocent. In the midst of a hearing, each party is reserved certain rights. Both the complainant and respondent should be allocated the same amount of time to present evidence and witnesses that support their version of events, to cross-examine each other and make a final statement regarding the case. After all sides have been heard, the panel will deliberate and make a decision.
Title IX Advisor
If you or your child have been accused of actions that allegedly fall under the umbrella of sexual misconduct or any other Title IX violation, you are granted the option of choosing any Title IX advisor to assist you through your school's processes. Selecting an attorney will undoubtedly increase the likelihood of a favorable case outcome. 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.
