Title IX is a federal law enacted to protect individuals from discrimination based on their gender. When a student or employee is accused of sexual misconduct, they face a Title IX investigation. The penalties for a violation are severe, and the consequences can follow you for years to come, impacting your educational opportunities and ability to secure future employment.
Students and their families are often unfamiliar with the investigation and disciplinary process, but we could help you navigate the procedure and understand the Florida academic Title IX Penalties. If you were accused of academic misconduct, our experienced Title IX Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert can advise you of your rights and explain the potential penalties you face for a violation. To set up an initial consultation, contact our office.
Title IX Violations
A Title IX violation could encompass any behavior that discriminates on the basis of sex. Most commonly, sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based discrimination. Every college or university that receives federal funding is mandated to implement a process to investigate and adjudicate alleged violations. Some common examples of Title IX violations include:
- Rape
- Stalking
- Sexual coercion
- Cyber-harassment
- Sexual harassment
- Gender discrimination
- Intimate partner violence
- Hostile work environment
- Assault and other sexual misconduct
A school’s Title IX policies apply to students, faculty, staff, and vendors alike. If you are subject to allegations of sexual misconduct on campus, talk to a Florida Attorney about your options and the potential academic penalties of a Title IX investigation.
Penalties for a Title IX Violation
After the Title IX violation is investigated and adjudicated, colleges and universities will impose penalties for violations. The penalty will depend on the nature of the conduct and the respondent’s position. For example, a professor accused of sexual misconduct may face greater discipline than students. If someone in Florida is found responsible for violating Title IX policies, the school may impose penalties such as:
- A verbal or written warning
- Disciplinary probation
- Suspension for a designated period of time
- Permanent expulsion from school
- Demotion
- Loss of employment
- Loss of tenure
- Restitution to victims
- Loss of scholarships or other educational opportunities
- Revocation or withholding of a degree
In addition, schools may prevent students from engaging in extracurricular activities on campus, like Greek life or athletic programs. Depending on what happened, the disciplinary committee may also order a change of residence halls, require the student or faculty member to seek counseling, or issue a formal apology to the victim. With your education or professional future at stake, rely on the experience of a Lawyer.
Hire a Florida Title IX Lawyer to Defend You
Having to defend yourself against a Title IX accusation can be overwhelming. The investigation process can hinder your academic and professional life. Luckily, we can help by gathering evidence, locating witnesses to testify on your behalf, and preparing a defense strategy to mitigate any potential penalties. Without the assistance of a legal professional, you could face serious consequences, including expulsion or termination of your employment.
At Leifert & Leifert, our highly skilled attorneys are ready to stand by you during the investigation and disciplinary process. They are prepared to help mitigate any Florida academic Title IX penalties. We understand the impact these accusations could have on your reputation, professional life, and ability to continue your education. Contact our office to learn more.
