Running into accusations of sexual misconduct at your educational institution can be very damaging to your reputation and career, especially as a member of staff. Whatever the final outcome of the investigation, the damage to your reputation and academic standing is already done. Moreover, you may be suspended or have restrictions placed upon you in the period when the investigation or hearing is being conducted.  

The Lento Law Firm has a wealth of experience defending students and staff in cases involving misconduct at school or university. The attorneys at the Lento Law Firm can skillfully handle your case and steer it toward the most favorable outcome possible. Call us to discuss your issue at 888.535.3686 or schedule a consultation online.  

Second Protest Against Philip Dybvig Increases Pressure on University 

Students at Washington University staged a second protest on February 29 against the continued presence of Professor Philip Dybvig on campus after being accused of sexual harassment by seven students since 2022. The protest took place in Simon Hall, where students rallied and chanted slogans indicating the professor was not welcome in the university. This was followed by an hour-long sit-in outside Dybvig's classroom.  

Dybvig, who won the Economic Sciences Nobel Prize in 2022, is facing seven allegations of sexual harassment, mostly from East Asian women. The protesting students received support from multiple student organizations and clubs, including MeToo WashU, Asians Demanding Justice, Student Union Senate, Abolish Greek Life, and Gender Expansive Multicultural Society. The group first protested against Dybvig's continued employment on January 16th and collected over 1,000 signatures in a petition asking for Dybvig to be terminated. They plan to continue protesting as long as the professor continues to be employed at Washington University.  

The groups organizing these protests have criticized the university's response to their demands and stated that information about the investigation is not being made available to student bodies. 

The university has declined to share any information, citing privacy laws.  

Let The Lento Law Firm Protect Your Career and Reputation 

Accusations of sexual impropriety can completely derail the career of an academic. Even if the accusations are untrue and consequently disproved, the fallout of a complaint can include temporary suspension, probation, and removal of privileges.  

If you are facing a serious complaint, retain legal counsel immediately. The Education Law Team at the Lento Law Firm is well-versed in all kinds of issues involving education law and knows university policies and procedures very well. They can help you gather and present evidence in your favor, draft responses to accusations and counter-questions, and negotiate with school authorities to get you less severe and reasonable sanctions, or even avoid sanctions altogether.  

Call the Lento Law Firm at 888.535.3686, or contact us online and schedule a consultation. The Education Law Team can answer all your questions about Title IX, or your case.