A recent opinion piece published in the Manistee News Advocate echoes the concern of families around the nation: Title IX provisions are becoming heavily politicized. Current trends show that as presidential administrations change, so are critical parts of Title IX laws, like due process. The numerous changes place students in limbo, such as innocent students accused of assault.

Title IX laws that protect against sexual discrimination apply to colleges and universities receiving federal funding. Despite their modification a little over a year ago, proposed changes threaten to strip accused students of protection. Although more efforts to support and protect victims are commendable, students facing Title IX charges still deserve a fair hearing and a chance to address allegations.

The Effect of Constant Modifications

In cases as sensitive as those involving campus sexual assault, college administrations prefer to err on the side of caution. Even before a hearing starts, administrations can take steps to protect the victim, including removing the accused from campus. Often, the pressure of groups and even media presence determine the outcome of Title IX cases, even if the accusations are false.

In some cases, due process was not an option before the amendments to the Title IX laws initiated by former secretary of State Betsy DeVos. When due process became law, concerns surfaced that victims will hesitate to speak out when experiencing sexual discrimination or assault.

On the one hand, victims of sexual assault must receive protection and deserve to feel safe on campus. Yet accused students also deserve a chance to defend against allegations, especially those with lifelong repercussions extending beyond campus. In some instances, college administrations don't take steps to protect the students' identities, causing irreparable damage to their reputations.

If You Suspect Rights Violations

Accused students have the right to due process during a Title IX hearing. Students who suspect a violation of their rights must not assume that they can manage the issue independently. Without a Title IX attorney, accused students fall victim to procedural errors and bias. It's not uncommon for administrators to appease vocal groups and avoid media scrutiny by sacrificing the rights of the accused instead of their reputation.

If you face campus sexual assault allegations, contact a skilled Title IX attorney like Joseph D. Lento. Attorney Lento's guidance and experience decrease the likelihood of procedural errors and help students receive a fair hearing.

A Title IX attorney helps students produce witnesses, protects constitutional rights, and highlights inconsistencies in investigations and hearings. Students have a better chance of receiving a favorable case outcome when they fight back and know their rights, reducing the impact of sanctions and irreversible reputation damage.

Don't let baseless or false allegations upend your life or that of someone you love. Call the Lento Law Firm today for a thorough discussion about your case at 888-535-3686.