Tips for Students Communicating with University Administrators During Sexual Assault Cases

When facing allegations of sexual assault, it can be overwhelming to try and figure out a school’s processes from just the code of conduct. It is highly recommended to visit an administrator’s office, communicate and stay updated on the progression of the case. Here are tips to consider when communicating with university administrators:

Who Should Communicate with School Administrators?

Allegations of sexual assault are highly stigmatized and can affect everyone involved including the accused, the accuser, and their families. Respondents may feel ashamed or embarrassed about having these claims brought against them and may choose to let their parents handle communication with school administrators to avoid further embarrassment. However, students ought to be actively involved in all communications from the beginning as they will be alone at hearings and unable to defend themselves if excluded from the process. Although parents may bring up better points during interactions with school officials, administrators interact differently with parents than they do with students. Students risk being ignored or bullied by school officials due to their status as students.

It is not necessary for students who wish to communicate directly with schools to exclude their parents completely because schools must first request a Family Educational Rights And Privacy Act (FERPA) waiver before providing educational information to a parent.

Understand Whats at Stake

When dealing with sexual assault cases, one is likely to have negative perceptions about everyone involved; however, it is essential for respondents’ outcomes that they work amicably with university authorities who also strive for fairness in such cases. Universities that fail these victims could lose federal funding; thus, they too have something at stake.

Document Everything

Its wise for any respondent communicating with school authorities through e-mail, phone calls or in-person meetings always to document everything discussed between themselves and authorities- this helps deter instances of “he said/she said.”

Experienced Defense Attorney

It can be difficult to deal with sexual assault allegations on your own, but experienced defense attorneys can help. Todd Spodek is an attorney who has worked with dozens of respondents dealing with sexual assault accusations. Contact him today at 212-300-5196 for efficient legal representation.

Table

| Tips for Students Communicating with University Administrators During Sexual Assault Cases |
| — |
| Who Should Communicate with School Administrators? |
| Understand Whats at Stake |
| Document Everything |
| Experienced Defense Attorney |