For those unfamiliar with Title IX, it is a federal civil rights law enacted in 1972 that prohibits discrimination based on sex in any school or educational program that gets federal funds.
The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) oversees Title IX, which requires an investigation to be held – independent of any criminal proceeding – when an allegation of sex-based harm is made.
Facing an accusation as a student can be incredibly daunting. Boca Raton academic Title IX penalties can include suspension and expulsion, impacting your reputation and future. A goal-oriented Title IX Attorney with Leifert & Leifert to discuss how to protect your image and academic career.
What Rights Do Accused Students Have?
When you are accused of violating Title IX on your campus, you have the right to:
- A fair process and unbiased investigation
- Review and gather evidence
- An advisor or lawyer
- A hearing and cross-examination of witnesses
- An appeal, in some cases
Title IX falls under civil law, not criminal. Because of this, its proceedings are held separately from any criminal cases stemming from the same incident.
Without the protections of due process afforded by criminal Courts, having an effective advocate on your side is essential. A strong-willed Title IX Attorney in Boca Raton can fight on your behalf throughout the entire investigation to protect your freedoms and mitigate penalties.
How Does the Process Work?
The process begins with a student filing a complaint. After the complaint is filed, the accused student and the complainant are notified by the school, which then gathers evidence to review. After this is done, claims are either dismissed due to insufficient evidence or a formal Hearing is held.
In some cases, an informal resolution can be reached, forgoing a hearing. However, when evidence justifies the complaint, a formal hearing is held, and a decision is issued. In some academic situations, a Boca Raton student may be able to appeal against a decision and its Title IX penalties.
The Importance of Legal Representation
No matter where you are in this process, a compassionate Lawyer with Leifert & Leifert can assist. We can investigate the claim by reviewing photo and video evidence, parsing the complaint and witness statements, conducting new interviews, consulting with experts, referencing applicable law, and more.
The standards of evidence in a Title IX investigation are lower than in a criminal Trial, making it even more vital to have an advocate who can present evidence in your defense.
Potential Title IX Penalties You May Face
Title IX violations can lead to various academic penalties, varying from school to school. Some common consequences include:
- A formal warning with an apology
- Mandatory counseling
- Residential restrictions on campus
- Disciplinary probation
- Academic suspension
- Expulsion
- Loss of degree
While some academic Title IX penalties are harsher than others, none are desirable for a student. Hiring a Boca Raton Lawyer to assist with a case can significantly shield your name and future.
Contact Us to Learn More About Academic Title IX Penalties in Boca Raton Today
We can help you get the optimal results in this unfortunate situation. Our team can inform you of the potential Boca Raton academic Title IX penalties you may be facing and the best strategy to overcome them.
At Leifert & Leifert, we believe you should be able to focus on your studies and life while our lawyers deal with the investigatory legwork. Get in touch to schedule a free consultation today.
