You know you're innocent. You remember clearly just what happened, and you know for certain that you didn't hurt anyone. It doesn't matter: you're facing a Title IX accusation, and no matter how sure of yourself you may be, that's a lot to process, a lot to carry. Scholar, athlete, leader—however you define yourself as a student, a Title IX allegation can turn your university experience upside down.

What You May Be Feeling

You can't prepare for a Title IX accusation. The only thing you can know for certain is that if you should find yourself accused, you'll be dealing with a complicated set of worries.

• The case itself: The minimum sanction in most Title IX cases is usually suspension. The most likely punishment is expulsion. Add to this the fact that winning a Title IX case is no slam dunk, and it makes sense that the case itself might be one of your biggest worries.
• Complex emotions: Keep in mind that accusations almost always come from someone you know, someone you may have trusted and even loved. It's no easy matter to sort out your feelings in this kind of situation.
• Telling others: You know you can't handle this situation yourself. You need help. It's tough, though, to have to tell your friends and family what you're going through. You worry, for instance, that they might not believe you.
• Public ridicule: In the current political climate, when an allegation of sexual misconduct goes public, it can devastate a student's reputation. You're likely worried then about your school or community finding out you've been accused.
• Self-doubts: This is perhaps the most peculiar way in which a Title IX charge can mess with your head. You know you're innocent, but that doesn't necessarily keep you from wondering if maybe you did something wrong. The mind can play funny tricks on us, and we can even wind up convincing ourselves we're guilty when we're not. In fact, there's a long history in American justice of false confessions.

Responding to an Accusation

Whatever you may be feeling, it's important you don't let the stress of an accusation overwhelm you. You don't want to let a charge interfere with your progress as a student or damage your standing as an athlete. Even more important, you don't want to let it rattle you to the point where you make a mistake that hurts your defense.

• Keep your cool: Easier said than done, but it's vital you keep your cool no matter what happens. It's OK to feel unsure or even out of control. It's not OK to let your actions get out of control. Whatever you do, don't retaliate against your accuser.
• Keep things to yourself: Telling others about your situation can endanger your ability to win your case. Tell those you need to tell, but otherwise, keep the details to yourself. This is especially important when it comes to social media. Never try to fight it out with your accuser online.
• Keep your life as normal as possible: Continue to go to class and keep up with assignments. Stick to your exercise regimen. Go to activities the way you always have. Maintaining normalcy is the key to maintaining a sense of control over your life.
• Get counseling: Consider seeing a therapist. They can help you talk through your emotions and offer useful strategies for dealing with your stress.
• Find a Title IX attorney: Finally, and most importantly, never try to handle a Title IX case on your own. Find a Title IX attorney, someone who knows the law and who has experience protecting students' rights.

Expert Title IX Defense Team Helping Students Nationwide

To find out more or to get help with your Title IX case, contact attorney Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team today at 888-555-3686, or use our automated online form.  The Lento Law Firm has helped hundreds of students and families across the United States overcome false and exaggerated Title IX sexual misconduct charges, and they can help you.