A four-year college degree involves significant academic and social challenges, but sometimes it may include stressors from disciplinary action. As institutions fall under increased pressure from the federal government to manage an expanded classification of discriminatory offenses, many are unaware of how far a school will go to uphold its reputation. The protections that parties have under Title IX are deteriorating, and the sheer number of official complaints spells uncertainty for student cases.

Record-Breaking Title IX Complaints

In 2022, the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights (OCR) reported an unprecedented 18,804 complaints—12 percent more than the previous high mark set in 2016. Although Title IX sexual discrimination claims dominated the load, it was still less than 50 percent of the total. The summary is as follows:

• Sexual discrimination: 9,498 complaints (48 percent)
• Disability discrimination: 6,467 complaints (32 percent)
• Racial discrimination: 3,239 (17 percent)
• Age discrimination: 666 (3 percent)

There is a caveat to OCR's analysis, however. One individual filed 7,339 complaints, all allegations of sexual discrimination. The skewed figures tell a tale of overworked Title IX personnel and policies used for posturing.

Why Should You Worry About Title IX

Title IX personnel juggling an expanded caseload is a risk to complainants and respondents. While the federal government closely watches institutions of higher education for swift management, some things can fall through the cracks. Students will be too busy with their studies to gather evidence and obtain witness testimony, and it's unwise to rely on a sole school-mandated investigator with multiple cases to tend to.

Moreover, with 39 percent of all OCR-documented cases originating with a single person, it's clear that the Title IX process is being used for gamesmanship. But school officials must treat any allegation with seriousness, and the eroding presumption of innocence for the respondent could create trouble where there was none before. Despite the growing risk, there are outlets for knowledgeable assistance.

You Always Have Access to Professional Help

Colleges and universities will have professional representation to defend their reputation. But complainants and respondents don't have to traverse the grievance process alone.

The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team has handled thousands of Education Law claims nationwide, ensuring students' futures are kept intact. Overworked Title IX personnel could invariably jump to conclusions as the federal government pressures them to act. Moreover, as procedures re-adopt a single-investigator model, evidence in the case may be left out altogether.

Fortunately, the Lento Law Firm can walk with you every step of the way through the investigative, hearing, sanctioning, and appeals process. There's no reason to jeopardize your academic future with false confidence from school officials. Contact the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team online or call 888-535-3686 to get assistance.