Title IX cases move quickly, carry serious consequences, and are often misunderstood by students and families. What begins as a university complaint can lead to expulsion, permanent academic consequences, and even criminal investigation.
If you or your child has been accused of a Title IX violation at Ohio University or another institution, it is critical to act immediately. These cases are not handled like criminal trials, and the rules that apply are very different.
Andrew H. Stevenson brings more than 25 years of criminal defense experience to Title IX cases, helping students navigate the university process while protecting their rights, their record, and their future.
Title IX is a federal law passed as part of the Education Amendments of 1972. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs that receive federal funding.
In practice, however, when people refer to “Title IX,” they are usually talking about the administrative process colleges and universities use to investigate and resolve allegations of sexual misconduct between students.
These proceedings are not criminal trials. They are internal disciplinary processes run by the university, with their own rules, procedures, and standards of proof.
Title IX cases often involve allegations such as:
These are serious allegations. Even though the process is administrative, the consequences can be as severe as, or more lasting than, some criminal penalties.
One of the most important things to understand is that Title IX proceedings do not provide the same protections as a criminal court.
In criminal court, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In a Title IX case, the standard is typically a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning the panel only needs to believe it is slightly more likely than not that a violation occurred.
This lower standard makes it easier for a student to be found responsible.
In most university proceedings, your attorney serves as an “advisor.” The advisor’s primary role is to conduct cross-examination during the hearing. They are not permitted to make opening statements or argue the case in the same way they would in court.
Because cross-examination is one of the most critical parts of the process, having an experienced criminal defense attorney in that role is essential.
Unlike criminal cases, where you have the right to remain silent, many universities require the respondent to participate in the process and provide statements. There is no Fifth Amendment protection in the same way there would be in a criminal trial.
This makes preparation extremely important. What you say during the investigation or hearing can directly affect the outcome.
The formal rules of evidence do not apply in Title IX proceedings. Universities operate under their own policies, which can allow information that would never be admitted in a courtroom.
Understanding how those rules work, and how to challenge questionable evidence, is a key part of an effective defense.
While procedures can vary slightly between institutions, most Title IX cases follow a similar structure.
The process typically begins when the university notifies the respondent by email that a complaint has been filed. This notice outlines the allegations and provides basic information about the process.
One or more investigators are assigned to gather information. They will interview the complainant, the respondent, and any witnesses. They will also collect evidence such as text messages, social media communications, photos, and other records.
At the conclusion of the investigation, a report is prepared summarizing the statements and evidence. Both parties are given the opportunity to review the report and the underlying materials.
After the report is finalized, a hearing is scheduled. At the hearing:
This is often the most critical stage of the case. The way testimony is presented and challenged can have a significant impact on the outcome.
Following the hearing, the panel issues a written decision. The respondent is found either “in violation” or “not in violation.” If found in violation, sanctions are imposed.
A finding of responsibility in a Title IX case can have long-term consequences.
In many cases, the result is permanent expulsion from the university. Your academic transcript may reflect that you were expelled for a Title IX violation, which can make it extremely difficult to transfer or enroll at another institution.
Even without criminal charges, the impact on your education, reputation, and future opportunities can be significant.
Many Title IX allegations involve conduct that could also be charged as a crime, such as sexual battery, gross sexual imposition, or rape.
In some cases, the university process and a criminal investigation happen at the same time. Statements made during a Title IX investigation can potentially be used by law enforcement.
If police or university officers attempt to speak with you, it is important to understand that they are not simply “trying to clear things up.” Their goal is to gather information that can be used in a criminal case.
Before speaking with law enforcement, you should consult with an attorney.
If you are notified of a Title IX complaint, the steps you take immediately afterward can affect your case.
Do not discuss the situation with friends, roommates, or classmates. Do not contact the complainant. Do not send messages or attempt to explain your side informally.
Anything you say or write can become part of the evidence.
Instead, contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Early guidance can help you avoid mistakes and prepare for the process ahead.
Although Title IX proceedings are administrative, the stakes are high and the process is complex.
An experienced attorney can assist by:
Because the process is heavily focused on interviews and credibility, preparation and strategy are critical.
Andrew H. Stevenson has extensive experience representing clients in Title IX proceedings as well as serious criminal cases. His background in criminal defense provides a strategic advantage when handling allegations that may also carry criminal exposure.
By applying principles of investigation, evidence analysis, and cross-examination, he works to protect his clients’ rights and achieve the best possible outcome in both the university and criminal contexts.
Yes. While the university allows you to have an advisor, having an experienced criminal defense attorney in that role can significantly affect how your case is handled. Cross-examination and preparation are critical to the outcome.
Yes. Many Title IX allegations involve conduct that could also be prosecuted criminally. It is possible to face both a university proceeding and a criminal investigation at the same time.
In most cases, you can appeal the decision. However, appeals are typically limited to specific issues such as procedural errors. It is relatively uncommon for findings to be overturned.
Students are usually notified by email that a complaint has been filed. The notice will include basic information about the allegations and the next steps in the process.
The complainant is the person making the allegation. The respondent is the person accused of violating university policy.
Yes. Title IX proceedings are separate from criminal cases. A student can be found responsible and expelled even if no criminal charges are filed or if a criminal case does not result in a conviction.
A claim can be initiated by reporting the incident to the university, campus police, or a mandatory reporter such as a resident advisor. In many cases, complaints can also be submitted through an online reporting system.
Title IX cases require immediate attention and careful handling. The process moves quickly, and early decisions can have a lasting impact.
Andrew H. Stevenson offers free initial consultations and represents students in Athens and throughout Ohio.
If you have been accused of a Title IX violation, contact his office or call (740) 761-2398 to discuss your situation and learn how to protect your rights and your future.
Young man who was brand new to the job was accused of failing to perform his duties at a group home for mentally challenged individuals. After we presented evidence that the training supervisor failed to properly and completely train the client on how to do the job, the case was dismissed.
