Title IX Violations and Their Long-Term Effects on Students

Being accused of a Title IX violation can be a terrifying and life-changing experience for students. The repercussions can be severe, even if the accused is found “not responsible” for the allegations. Institutions are obligated to act quickly and impose harsh punishments to avoid losing their federal funding. Wisconsin-based Spodek Law Group, led by Attorney Todd Spodek, can help students navigate the complex and ever-changing Title IX regulations.

Understanding Title IX

Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on sex and gender in federally funded educational programs or activities. It encompasses sexual misconduct, harassment, and discrimination in all aspects of the educational program, including admissions, employment, and the treatment of participants. This law applies not only to universities and colleges but also to K-12 schools, workshops, and training programs funded by the government.

Types of Title IX Violations

Title IX violations include, but are not limited to:

• Sex/gender discrimination
• Sexual harassment/exploitation
• Sexual assault
• Domestic/dating violence
• Stalking
• Retaliation
• Providing false information or refusing to comply with the Title IX process/personnel

The Title IX Investigation Process

When a Title IX Coordinator is informed of a violation, the institution or program is considered to have “actual knowledge” of the incident, initiating the grievance procedures. The Coordinator will contact the complainant to discuss the allegations within a “deliberately indifferent” timeframe. If the allegations are dismissed, the school administration is still allowed to address them in any manner deemed sufficient under its code of conduct.

The accused is then informed of the allegations and their rights, including the right to be presumed “not responsible” in the matter and the right to choose an advisor, preferably an attorney. An Investigator, who must not be the same person as the Title IX Coordinator, interviews both parties, gathers evidence, and interviews any witnesses involved. The collected information is sent to both parties, who have ten days to analyze the information and respond.

Colleges and universities must provide a live hearing, where the Decision-Maker(s) permit each party’s advisor to cross-examine the other party and witnesses. If anyone refuses to submit to cross-examination, their statements cannot be used to reach a conclusion. The Decision-Maker(s) base their determination of responsibility on the “preponderance of evidence” or “clear and convincing evidence” standard, depending on the school’s decision.

Both parties can appeal the decision within a relatively vague timeframe of “reasonably prompt.” Nevertheless, appeals are only permitted under a few circumstances, including the discovery of new evidence, procedural irregularities, and Title IX personnel conflict of interest/bias.

The Consequences of Title IX Violations

Punishments for Title IX violations are typically severe and can go beyond school-mandated counseling, warnings, and probation. Suspension is often the minimum accepted punishment, and the school may also note the offense in the student’s transcript, making it more challenging to gain admission to another institution. Additionally, other institutions may request reference information about the violation.

Students, employees, or vendors may face expulsion, occupational position change, loss of employment, loss of tenure, restitution, revocation of financial aid, rescinding/withholding of a degree, or denial of a professional license. These consequences can have a long-lasting impact on the accused’s life.

How Spodek Law Group Can Help

If you or someone you love is facing Title IX accusations, it’s crucial to take the situation seriously and seek legal representation. The Spodek Law Group, led by Attorney Todd Spodek, has extensive experience handling Title IX cases in Wisconsin and nationwide.

A skilled Title IX attorney, like Todd Spodek, can assist students through the investigative, hearing, and appeals process. Lento has defended hundreds of students in Wisconsin and across the U.S., negotiating fair settlements, and protecting his clients’ rights.

Spodek Law Group understands the seriousness of Title IX violations and their long-term effects on students’ academic and professional careers. The firm’s attorneys have a deep understanding of the law and exhibit professionalism and empathy while helping clients navigate the complex legal system.

Why Choose Spodek Law Group?

• Experienced Title IX Attorneys: Spodek Law Group has a team of experienced Title IX attorneys who have defended hundreds of students and have a deep understanding of the law.
• Personalized Attention: The firm provides personalized attention to each client, ensuring they understand the legal process and their rights.
• Compassionate Representation: The attorneys at Spodek Law Group exhibit professionalism and empathy while helping clients navigate the complex legal system.
• Proven Results: The firm has a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for their clients.

Contact Spodek Law Group Today

If you or someone you love is facing Title IX accusations, contact the Spodek Law Group today at 888-555-3686 or through its online form. The firm’s attorneys can assist you in protecting your rights, defending your reputation, and ensuring a fair and just outcome.