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. 

Federal gender-equity law Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender in the majority of Connecticut educational institutions. Its implementation and enforcement within state colleges and universities have been relatively controversial. Overall, the law intends to ensure that all students have equal access to education regardless of sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity. It also forbids several gender-based discriminatory acts, like sexual harassment, and sexual assault. Under Title IX, any complaint detailing pervasive misconduct should be met with immediate action.

When a school receives notification of alleged sexual misconduct, all the parties involved will undergo a Title IX resolution process. This process is conducted to determine whether there was a violation of policy. Several meetings, an investigation, and a hearing will be regulated to dictate whether a respondent is “responsible” or not responsible for the alleged misconduct. When a Title IX proceeding results in a responsible finding, the accused has the right to appeal a school’s decision.

Your Right to Appeal

Student respondents who are dissatisfied with their case outcome, or feel as if the decision was unfair or unfounded have the option of appealing. An appeal is a written request for a school to reconsider its decision. The appeals process has been implemented in educational institutions to keep school authorities accountable for the decisions they make. Oftentimes, schools recommend sanctions that can significantly impair the academic and professional careers of students. If the right decision isn’t made in these circumstances, it should be corrected. Hence, why it’s important to take advantage of the right to appeal.

Questions about your school’s appellate process and the course of action that should be attempted in your unique situation should be discussed with a student defense attorney. A legal professional can help you write an appeal that’s compelling and effective.

Grounds for an Appeal

The grounds for a Title IX appeal, although determined by the specific policies of the applicable college or university, will generally be limited to the following:

  • Procedural error: a significant mistake was made at some point during the Title IX process, and it influenced the outcome of a determination and/or sanction.
  • New evidence available: evidence that could have substantially influenced a case outcome is now available.
  • Disproportionate sanction: the sanction was unduly disproportionate to the severity of the violation.
  • A violation of due process rights: an institution robbed a student of their entitled rights under Title IX and school policy.

Most school appeal processes have strict submission deadlines that must be followed. See your student handbook to identify these deadlines and act accordingly. In the event that an appeal is not submitted in a timely manner or is substantively ineligible, the original determination and sanction will stand.

Connecticut Title IX Appeal Advisor

If you’re a Connecticut student facing serious consequences due to an alleged Title IX violation, you should talk to a student defense attorney. An appeal is one of the last opportunities for you to salvage your reputation, preserve your academic record, and get out of this situation unscathed. Our skilled Student Defense Team has the experience, skill, and expertise to help you successfully appeal your Title IX outcome. Contact us online or give us a call at 888-535-3686 for their help.

State Universities:

State-Run Colleges:

Federal-Level Military Academy

Private Colleges and Universities

For-Profit Colleges

A Title IX finding of responsibility can change an accused student’s life if not properly addressed and appealed, and our Student Defense Team has a decade of experience passionately fighting for the futures of our clients at universities and colleges throughout the nation. 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.

Connecticut Appeal Advisor

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