As the allegations of a Title IX charge are also criminal acts (rape, GSI, sexual battery), those facing Title IX defense charges may also be in danger of being charged in criminal court as well. I am able to assist in these instances. Cases where a client is simultaneously facing a Title IX charge from Ohio University as well as under investigation by the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office require extreme planning, preparation and experience. In these cases, it is most important to secure the representation of an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Take steps now to ensure a fair process and best defense by working with an experienced Ohio defense attorney, Andrew H. Stevenson. I have represented many clients in Title IX defense matters, criminal investigations, and serious criminal cases. Call me to discuss how best to proceed to protect your reputation and future.
Contact Andrew H. Stevenson today to schedule your free case evaluation and learn more about the process.
Yes! If you want to seriously and effectively defend a Title IX claim of sexual assault or misconduct you should have an experienced criminal defense attorney. Your attorney should defend you by:
Technically, a student can appeal the decision of the Hearing Panel. However, the grounds for appeal are generally limited to procedural error. As a result very few findings are ever overturned.
A student who is found to be guilty of sexual assault or rape will almost always be permanently expelled from the University. Further, his academic transcript will indicate that he was expelled for a Title IX violation, and it is highly unlikely that he will ever graduate from a college or university in the United States.
If the Complainant makes her report to law enforcement or university police, often an officer will attempt to make contact with the accused or Respondent for an “interview.” The Officer will say that he is “just looking to clear things up,” or “ask for help in resolving a matter.” This is not what the officer really wants. He wants to interview you in order to get a confession or have you make statements that can be used against you. If confronted by law enforcement, decline to participate or simply say “I want a lawyer” and then call Andrew H. Stevenson.
DO NOT TALK TO ANYONE and contact Andrew H. Stevenson immediately. Do not speak with your friends or roommate about this, do not call the accuser, do not text or talk with anyone until you have spoken with me.
Ohio University notifies students of the existence of the claim by email.
The person making the accusation is referred to as the COMPLAINANT.
The person who is accused of wrongdoing is referred to as the RESPONDENT.
The process begins with an alleged victim filing a claim with either the university or law enforcement. At Ohio University a student who believes they were sexually assaulted can simply fill out a form online or report it to Ohio University Police. Additionally, if a person tells a mandatory reporter, such as an RA, the mandatory reporter will file the formal complaint with the university.
All claims of sexual assault, sexual harassment, dating violence, stalking or gender based discrimination between students and or faculty must be addressed by a university or college. Not every claim is technically a Title IX action, some actions proceed as a violation of the Code of Student Conduct. Regardless, the process for resolving the claim is the same. This process is commonly called “Title IX” because of the federal regulations which state no person based on their sex shall be denied the benefits of an education program that receives federal financial assistance. Although initially designed to address female athletics, the umbrella has been expanded to include sexual assault under the theory that those who are sexually assaulted are being denied an equal opportunity to participate in the educational experience.
Passed as part of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title IX has become the federal law which governs how colleges and educational institutions handle allegations of gender discrimination and sexual misconduct. However, in cases of claims of sexual assault between students the phrase “Title IX” is commonly used to describe the administrative process that colleges or universities use to address sexual assault claims. Call now to learn more.