A Title IX Lawyer Orlando is a legal professional who specializes in defending students against claims of sexual harassment, assault or other violations of the federal law that prohibits discrimination on college campuses. Many students face these accusations without proper legal guidance and can suffer severe consequences if they fail to have competent legal counsel on their side.
Schools can use disciplinary powers to retaliate to students accused of misconduct. During the Title IX investigation, a defense lawyer can monitor any retaliation. This is especially important for schools that have been pressured or contacted by media attention, outside groups, student activists, or media attention to believe their accuser and initiate disciplinary actions against them.
Gathering evidence is the first step to a successful defense. Although it is common for schools to destroy evidence early on, it is important to gather as much evidence as you can in the days and weeks following the incident. A skilled Texas Title IX defense attorney can help you to collect and document the relevant evidence, as well as interview witnesses of the alleged incident.
Fair trial: Title IX investigations must follow federal law. This means investigators must ignore their “gut feeling” and “implicit biasedes” which could impact their judgments.
It is quite common for Title IX investigators and respondent to be biased. This is why a strong defense could make a big difference in the investigation’s outcome. A defense lawyer can help the respondent prepare a compelling defense that can convince investigators to reach a different conclusion.
A Title IX investigation takes approximately 60 days. However it can take longer if there is more evidence or witnesses. An impartial investigator will interview both the complainant and the respondent during the investigation. Both parties will have the opportunity to have an advisor present at any time during the interview.
Interim measures: The coordinator will decide if interim measures are needed as part of Title IX’s disciplinary process. These could include a no contact order, which prohibits the respondent’s contact with the complainant. This can have a negative impact on the accused student’s participation in fraternities or sororities as well as athletics and other activities.
Retaliation. A federal law allows a respondent to sue the university for any type retaliation they suffered as a result Title IX complaints. This includes any attempt at contact the complainant in such a way that violates their privacy as texting or emailing them.
A good defense attorney will defend the rights and dignity the complainant throughout the entire procedure, including the hearing. A successful defense can also increase the likelihood of the complainant prevailing at the conclusion of the case.
Developing a defense that is effective: After the investigation is over, the accused can appeal against the findings. If the appeal has been granted, a hearing is held in which the respondent can present evidence to support their innocence or provide testimony.
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