Title IX law is in constant flux, with new rules and legal challenges continuing to shape how schools, colleges, and other institutions handle sex-based misconduct and discrimination.  Our firm closely monitors these developments and is committed to providing the most current information available. Click here to learn about the current state of Title IX and how we can help if you are facing accusations or other Title IX issues. 

More than 20,000 college and university students are now participating in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs in the U.S. These programs involve making a military service obligation in exchange for scholarships and other benefits. In Connecticut, Army ROTC programs are currently available at the University of Connecticut and the University of New Haven. Yale University offers a Navy ROTC program and roughly six institutions also offer Air Force ROTC.

Understanding Title IX

Educational institutions in the U.S. are tasked with Title IX compliance to maintain eligibility for federal funding. Title IX was a civil rights amendment implemented in 1972 by the U.S. Department of Education to prevent and investigate allegations of sexually-based discrimination.  Institutions designate a Title IX Coordinator that creates and maintains written procedures for investigating and equitably ruling on these matters.

Discrimination may involve preventing or impeding someone’s participation in activities or access to benefits based on their gender or sexual orientation. Sexual harassment is prohibited by these provisions such as acts of promoting false stereotypes or making unwanted sexual advances. Violent physical acts including sexual assault are also deemed as harassment and may have criminal implications. These victims have not given consent to partake in sexual activity or are incapable of giving consent due to age, incapacitation or mental deficiency.

All parties to Title IX disciplinary actions can choose an advisor that will function in a support role. It is important for students facing accusations to retain legal representation that is familiar with these actions promptly. Timing may be important to ensure you are sufficiently prepared to issue concise statements and respond effectively to questions. An effective student rights attorney will use a comprehensive approach that may involve engaging in discussions to negotiate a favorable resolution on your behalf.

Title IX and ROTC Disenrollment

The evidentiary standard that is most commonly used in proving allegations is “by a preponderance of the evidence.” When these allegations are proven, students are likely to be suspended or expelled from the school. ROTC students will consequently face the disenrollment process for breaching their written agreement with the government.

Disenrollment will result in a loss of eligibility to become a commissioned officer. Students may then be held responsible for repaying the financial benefits they have received and be obliged to serve in active duty. The branches of the Army, Navy, and Air Force each have written provisions that relate to the disenrollment process. Your attorney will also be critical in this process to protect your right to due process.

ROTC Disenrollment Process Basics

  • All investigative measures and rulings are overseen by a “board of officers or investigating officer”
  • All students have the right to “appear personally before the board or officer”
  • The Secretary of the Military Department may use its discretion in imposing active-duty service and repayment sanctions

Experienced Defense Advisor in Connecticut for ROTC Students

Students that are participating in an ROTC program have a clear plan for their future. These goals can quickly be disrupted by allegations of a Title IX violation and the likely subsequent disenrollment. Our Student Defense Team are Title IX attorneys that will produce an effective defense strategy in these matters. Promptly contact the office at (888) 535-3686 for assistance.

Connecticut colleges and universities where we can help as your or your ROTC student’s Title IX advisor during investigations, hearings, and appeals include, but are not limited to, the following schools (schools in bold have Army, Navy, and/or Air Force ROTC programs or are affiliated with schools where students can take ROTC classes):

State Universities:

State-Run Colleges:

Federal-Level Military Academy

Private Colleges and Universities

For-Profit Colleges

All students must be extremely mindful when accused of sexual misconduct at their college or university; ROTC students in particular, however, can have even more concerns at all stage of Title IX proceedings because the stakes are higher yet – When first contacted by their school’s Title IX office, when a sexual misconduct investigation begins, when facing a hearing or an appeal, or when seeking further recourse by filing a Title IX complaint with the Department of Education Office of Civil Rights when necessary.  For ROTC students who are facing a Title IX case and their families, it is critical to take the necessary precautions as soon as possible, including having an experienced attorney advisor, when accused of sexual misconduct.  Unfortunately, some students, not being as familiar what is at stake and also their rights in the process, will mistakenly believe that if they “just explain what happened,” everything will work out.  Title IX cases can be won, but students and their families must recognize, however, that achieving a favorable in a Title IX case requires a dedicated and intensive approach best handled by a professional who has a track record of successes in the Title IX disciplinary arena.

Fighting passionately for the future of students at colleges and universities throughout the nation for over a decade, our Student Defense Team knows how important it is to mount the strongest defense because he understands that an ROTC student’s academic future and future commission and military career is at stake. They do not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead prioritizes our clients’ needs and well-being. The LLF National Law Firm Team represents clients nationwide, and serves as Title IX advisors and educational consultants to students facing disciplinary cases in Connecticut and throughout the nation. Make certain your or your student’s interests are protected – Contact LLF National Law Firm today.

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