Protecting College Employees in Title IX Proceedings

Title IX is a federal law established to protect college students against gender discrimination and sexual harassment or assault. This federal regulation also aims to prevent stalking or a hostile environment that impacts the ability of students to learn and for all individuals to feel safe on campus.

Title IX violations are not criminal offenses; however, if the alleged violation also qualifies as a criminal offense, you could be charged criminally as well. Those accused of Title IX violations need a knowledgeable attorney who can advise them of their legal rights and protect their professional future. Contact Contant Law P.C. today to schedule a free consultation so we may review the Title IX allegations and determine what legal strategies suit your needs.

When Can a College Employee Face a Title IX Violation?

Higher learning institutions that receive federal financial assistance must adhere to Title IX regulations. Failure to take action against violations could result in the school losing its federal funding. That being the case, colleges and universities treat Title IX cases seriously and are required to launch investigations when allegations are made against employees.

Title IX policies prevent employees from engaging in any form of gender discrimination, sexual violence, harassment, or assault with college students or other staff. Other prohibited actions that violate Title IX rules include sexual exploitation, relationship violence, or stalking. Any inappropriate action that denies an individual the opportunity to receive a higher education based on their gender is considered a violation.

Suppose you have been accused of a violation. In that case, you must hire a Title IX defense attorney to help you understand your legal rights and act as your legal advocate to prevent you from incriminating yourself. Contact our Woburn, MA, law office to schedule a free consultation immediately for more information about Title IX law and to learn how we can protect your rights during the investigative process.

Are College Employees Prevented From Working During a Title IX Investigation?

If you have been accused of violating Title IX, you are most likely concerned about being prevented from going to work while the investigation is ongoing. College employees are generally not prohibited from working while the investigation is being conducted; however, an employee may be placed on administrative leave depending on the severity of the alleged violation.

Other interim measures that may be enforced against employees include a restriction on attending an education program or activity on campus, restricted contact with students, and no contact with the alleged victim. For example, if you have been accused of sexual assault, the college could place you on leave because they view you as a potential risk.

College campuses have specific institutional policies that detail how interim measures should apply to faculty members during investigations. If you are facing a discrimination complaint and are unsure of your legal rights, contact our highly qualified lawyers. We can explain your rights and provide more information about the next steps in the Title IX process.

No one likes being investigated for Title IX complaints. Still, when they occur, you need an experienced Title IX defense attorney like those of Contant Law P.C. who will ensure you are treated fairly during the investigation and that no damage is done to your professional standing in the community.

What are the Potential Consequences for College Employees Who Violate Title IX?

Title IX proceedings can be overly complex. If an employee is found responsible for a violation, the college campuses have several options for resolving the issue. The severity of the violation will determine the penalty imposed.

For example, the college may determine that reprimanding an employee is best. The reprimand is a formal, written warning given to the employee indicating that they were found to have violated Title IX, their behavior is unacceptable, and similar actions could lead to being suspended or terminated

Some of the other potential consequences imposed against employees for violating Title IX include:

• Suspension
• Termination
• Loss of professional reputation
• Revocation of tenure and teaching credentials

It should also be noted that although law enforcement authorities do not conduct Title IX violations, they could trigger a criminal investigation. Violations that include domestic violence or sexual misconduct could also result in criminal penalties that include being sentenced to jail or prison.

Allow one of our Title IX attorneys to act as your legal advocate to protect and safeguard your interests.

Why are Your Title IX Defense Lawyers the Best Choice for My Legal Needs?

If you face Title IX accusations, you must hire an attorney immediately. Educational institutions typically launch investigations quickly when employees are accused of Title IX violations so they do not lose federal financial assistance.

Although a Title IX violation is not a criminal infraction, the potential penalties could have severe, long-lasting professional and personal implications.

When you come to Contant Law P.C. For help, we will help you navigate the complex Title IX investigative process and ensure you know your rights. One of the most significant benefits of hiring our Title IX lawyers is that, just as in criminal cases, they will help you understand how to respond to questions so you do not make mistakes that could cause you to incriminate yourself. Our legal team will also work to gather critical evidence, such as witness testimony, which supports your side of the story.

Call (617) 221-8221 to schedule a free case evaluation at Contant Law P.C.’s Woburn, MA, law offices. We will then determine what legal strategies best meet your needs.