Indiana is now home to roughly 73 college and university locations. These institutions are among the majority throughout the U.S. that must comply with federal Title IX guidelines. Title IX was originally established by the U.S. Department of Education in 1972. The intent was to address problems with sexually-based discrimination in all educational institutions.
Schools are tasked with creating and maintaining written policies and procedures that explain how complaints of sexual discrimination are managed. Nationally, enforcement is the responsibility of the Office of Civil Rights (OCR). Schools that fail to comply with the provisional guidelines may no longer be eligible for federal education funding.
Potential Violations
Sexually-based harassment may be committed by students, faculty, visitors, and others associated with an educational institution. These are sexually-oriented acts that are unwelcomed. Examples include appeals for sexual favors, unwanted advances, and other acts that are verbal, nonverbal or physical.
Acts of sexual harassment may escalate to sexual violence when they are physical and committed against someone's will. This also applies in situations involving a victim that is unable to grant consent. Examples include those who are heavily intoxicated, under the influence of drugs, and although less likely in the campus setting, those who are mentally disabled or too young to consent to sexual activity.
Other types of harassment include stereotyping and taunting. These actions may be gender-based or based on perception. Schools are responsible for ensuring that all individuals are free from these and other actions that create a hostile educational environment.
School Procedure
Upon receiving a complaint, the administration from the Title IX Coordinator's office is responsible for responding in a reasonable time frame. An investigation will commence that is to be free from any conflicts of interest. Federal guidelines call for all parties to be treated “equitably” throughout the proceedings.
These investigations will involve reviewing the evidence and hearing witness testimony. Many schools hold hearings with all parties present. Parties are typically permitted to choose an advisor that will provide support to some extent.
They may also offer alternative options including mediation to reach amicable resolutions. The evidentiary standards that may be used in these matters include a preponderance of the evidence or clear and convincing evidence standards.
LGBTQ Students Accused of Violations
It is estimated that students who identify at LGBTQ now compose 10% of the total enrollment at colleges and universities. This is a group often viewed as not conforming to societal norms. Based on stereotypical or false perceptions, LGBTQ students that are accused of these types of misconduct may feel that their rights are insufficiently protected. It is recommended to consult with an experienced attorney.
Why Should an Attorney Serve in the Advisor Role?
It is strongly encouraged that students consider seeking experienced legal representation for this advisory role. An attorney will assist you in preparation during the investigation and if a hearing is convened. An attorney will also ensure your rights are protected and are of particular importance in any appeals process.
Experienced Title IX Advisor for Students in Indiana
Indiana students that are found to have committed violations of their school's policies relating to Title IX may face significant repercussions. Joseph D. Lento is an attorney that will work to achieve a positive outcome for you. Contact the office today at (888) 535-3686 for assistance.
Indiana colleges and universities where Joseph D. Lento can help as your or your gay or lesbian student's Title IX advisor during investigations, hearings, and appeals include, but are not limited to, the following schools
- Ancilla College
- Anderson University
- Ball State University
- Bethel College Mishawaka
- Brown Mackie College Fort Wayne
- Brown Mackie College Indianapolis
- Brown Mackie College Merrillville
- Brown Mackie College Michigan City
- Brown Mackie College South Bend
- Butler University
- Calumet College of Saint Joseph
- College of Court Reporting Inc.
- Crossroads Bible College
- DePauw University
- DeVry University Indiana
- Earlham College
- Fortis College Indianapolis
- Franklin College
- Goshen College
- Grace College and Theological Seminary
- Hanover College
- Harrison College Anderson
- Harrison College Columbus
- Harrison College Elkhart
- Harrison College Evansville
- Harrison College Fort Wayne
- Harrison College Indianapolis East
- Harrison College Lafayette
- Harrison College Muncie
- Harrison College Northwest
- Harrison College Terre Haute
- Holy Cross College
- Huntington University
- Indiana Institute of Technology
- Indiana State University
- Indiana University Bloomington
- Indiana University East
- Indiana University Kokomo
- Indiana University Northwest
- Indiana University Purdue University Fort Wayne
- Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis
- Indiana University South Bend
- Indiana University Southeast
- Indiana Wesleyan University
- International Business College
- International Business College Indianapolis
- ITT Technical Institute Fort Wayne
- ITT Technical Institute Indianapolis
- ITT Technical Institute Merrillville
- ITT Technical Institute Newburgh
- ITT Technical Institute South Bend
- Ivy Tech Community College Bloominton
- Ivy Tech Community College Central Indiana
- Ivy Tech Community College Columbus
- Ivy Tech Community College East Central
- Ivy Tech Community College Kokomo
- Ivy Tech Community College Lafayette
- Ivy Tech Community College Northcentral
- Ivy Tech Community College Northeast
- Ivy Tech Community College Northwest
- Ivy Tech Community College Richmond
- Ivy Tech Community College South Central
- Ivy Tech Community College Southeast
- Ivy Tech Community College Southwest
- Ivy Tech Community College Wabash Valley
- Manchester College
- Marian University
- Martin University
- MedTech College
- MedTech College Ft Wayne Campus
- MedTech College Greenwood Campus
- Mid America College of Funeral Service
- Oakland City University
- Purdue University Calumet Campus
- Purdue University Main Campus
- Purdue University North Central Campus
- Rose Hulman Institute of Technology
- Saint Josephs College
- Saint Mary's College
- Saint Mary of the Woods College
- Taylor University
- The Art Institute of Indianapolis
- Trine University
- Trine University Regional/Non Traditional Campuses
- University of Evansville
- University of Indianapolis
- University of Notre Dame
- University of Phoenix Indianapolis Campus
- University of Phoenix Northwest Indiana Campus
- University of Saint Francis Fort Wayne
- University of Southern Indiana
- Valparaiso University
- Vincennes University
- Wabash College
Approximately 10% of college students in the United States identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, or questioning according to studies and LGBTQ+ students should not feel alone when accused of sexual misconduct. As importantly, they should they not face such burdens alone or without the necessary support and guidance.
The reason LGBTQ+ students should not go through the Title IX process alone is because, as with all students accused of sexual misconduct, Title IX allegations and charges can change an accused student's life if not defended against properly and as early as possible during the disciplinary process. It is critical to have a dedicated and experienced advocate when facing a challenge in life and Joseph D. Lento has more than a decade of experience passionately fighting for the future of LGBTQ+ students 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 and New York and serves as a Title IX advisor to students facing Title IX and disciplinary cases in Indiana and throughout the nation. Make certain your or your student's interests are protected - Contact National Title IX attorney Joseph D. Lento today at 888-535-3686.
