In April of 2024, the Department of Education approved New Title IX rules, which are scheduled to take effect on August 1, 2024. Our firm is closely monitoring ongoing challenges to these new rules in court, and is working hard to provide you the most up-to-date information. Click here to learn about the current state of Title IX and how we can help if you are facing accusations.
Thiel College takes instances of sexual misconduct within its student body very seriously. The College upholds Title IX Policies and Procedures, which are enforced by the Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Policy outlines what actions are considered acts of sexual misconduct and what actions the College will take when a student violates these policies. These policies are separate and distinct from what the College will use when a student is accused of a standard violation, and as such, are taken much more seriously due to their nature.
Thiel College Sexual Misconduct
The process for resolving sexual misconduct begins when a report involving sexual misconduct violations is filed with the College. The Title IX Coordinator will make the determination if the report is subject to appropriate action under the Title IX policy. Once action under this policy is deemed necessary, the College will begin a Title IX investigation into the matters. Throughout the investigations, students who file the complaint will be known as the "complainant," while the student facing the allegations will be known as the "respondent." Investigations will typically involve separate meetings with both parties, along with any pertinent witnesses suggested by either party. After the investigation has concluded, the Title IX Coordinator will decide how to pursue the allegations, either through an informal process or a formal hearing. If a formal hearing is to be held, the Title IX Coordinator will assemble a hearing board.
Hearings
Hearings for sexual misconduct will not follow a set procedure and instead, proceed according to the will of the board. At hearings, both parties will, in theory, be guaranteed certain rights throughout the process. Both parties may present their own information and witnesses to support their case. The board will hear out all information and make a decision. Decisions at hearings are made using the standard of "more likely than not." The board will also assign an appropriate sanction to the respondent if they are found to be in violation.
At hearings for sexual misconduct incidents, students are entitled to an advisor of their own choosing. Sexual misconduct allegations can carry very serious consequences that can affect a student's professional and academic careers; both immediately and later in life. For this reason, students should select an attorney to serve as their advisor throughout the investigation and hearing process. An attorney can protect a student's rights throughout the investigation and can help a student prepare arguments and evidence to present at a hearing that can strongly influence the outcome. In addition, if any additional ramifications stem from the initial reporting of the allegations at Thiel College, an attorney can serve as a student's legal guide.
Appeals at Thiel College
If a hearing results in an unfavorable outcome, students are able to make an appeal. Appeals should be submitted within two (2) business days of receiving the outcome. Appeals must be on the grounds of a claim of unsubstantial information, new information, or to reconsider harsh sanctions.
If you or your student is currently facing sexual misconduct allegations or Title IX charges at Thiel College, contact the LLF Law Firm today.
