Bloomfield College handles all instances of sexual misconduct within is student body with utmost diligence. The College upholds a Policy On Sexual Assault that outlines what conduct is prohibited, and what measures will be taken by the College to enforce disciplinary action against students who are alleged to have committed acts of sexual misconduct. The process utilized for these incidents mirrors what is utilized for incidents of standard misconduct, though certain differences may apply in the investigation and hearings.
Bloomfield College Sexual Misconduct Policy
Whenever a complaint regarding allegations of sexual misconduct is filed with a College official, the process for resolving the incident will begin. The College utilizes an investigative review procedure to resolve incidents of sexual misconduct. Throughout the process, students who file the complaint will be known as the "complainant," while the student who faces the allegations will be known as the "alleged offender." The College will also devote resources to ensure the safety of the complainant, which can include, among other measures, a no-contact order and even the interim suspension of the alleged offender.
Investigations
Investigations into matters of sexual misconduct will be handled by the Title IX Coordinator. The Coordinator will assign an appropriate investigator, who will gather facts related to the alleged incident. The investigator will meet with each party individually, and any suggested witnesses. Once the facts have been gathered, the investigator will direct the matter to hearing. The alleged offender will be sent a formal notification of sexual misconduct charges, and an appropriate hearing board will be selected for the case.
Hearings
Once a hearing board is selected, the chairperson of the board will lead the hearing. Hearings do not follow any set agenda, and will instead proceed according to the will of the chairperson, however, both parties will in theory be guaranteed certain rights throughout the process. Both parties are entitled to the presentation of their own supporting witnesses and evidence. In addition, they may question opposing witnesses at the discretion of the hearing board. Students are also permitted to make final statements regarding their cases. After the final statements, along with all relevant information, have been heard, the board will close the hearing for deliberation. Decisions are made using the standard of "a preponderance of evidence."
At hearings, students are entitled to an advisor of their own choosing. Sexual misconduct allegations can carry very serious consequences that can greatly affect students' academic and professional goals, For this reason, among other considerations, students should select an attorney to serve as their advisor. An attorney will be able to advise students on methods of questioning and evidence presentation that can be highly effective at their hearings. In addition, attorneys can ensure that a student's rights remain protected throughout the process. Lastly, should any adverse consequences arise from the initial reporting at Bloomfield College, an attorney may act as a guide to a student through these circumstances.
Appeals At Bloomfield College
In the event of an unfavorable hearing outcome, students may make an appeal. Appeals must be made within one (1) week of the written notification of the outcome. The grounds for appeal are new evidence, procedural errors, a debate of the applicability of the violation, or a claim of overly severe punishments.
If you or your student is facing Title IX charges or sexual misconduct allegations at Bloomfield College, contact attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
