What Happens In Title IX Proceedings?
Title IX is a federal civil rights law in the United States of America that was passed as part of the Education Amendments of 1972. It prohibits discrimination based on gender in any federally funded education activity or program. Title IX states that: “No person in the United States shall, based on sex, be banned from participation in, be subjected to discrimination, be denied the benefits of, or under any education activity or program receiving Federal financial assistance.” If you face any such discrimination, you should contact a lawyer by searching Google “Title IX lawyer near me.”
What happens in Title IX proceedings?
Title IX proceedings involve an investigation and hearing process designed to ensure that a student accused of violating a school’s Title IX policy is given a fair and impartial opportunity to respond to the allegations. Such proceedings often involve interviews with witnesses and the accused student, examination of any relevant documents, and ultimately a decision rendered by an impartial decision maker. Depending on the severity of the alleged violation, Title IX proceedings may lead to various outcomes, including suspension or expulsion from the school, restitution, or even criminal charges.
A variety of school and government officials handle Title IX proceedings. School administrators, Title IX coordinators, and Title IX investigators are responsible for investigating Title IX complaints and determining if a policy violation has occurred. Additionally, hearings are conducted by school disciplinary boards or hearing panels comprised of faculty and staff members. External agencies, such as the Office for Civil Rights, may be involved in the proceedings.
- Hearings and Trial
Hearings and trials are not typically part of the title IX investigation process. Title IX investigations are not criminal proceedings and do not typically involve the courts. Title IX investigations may involve interviews with the parties and witnesses, a review of documents, and other fact-finding activities; however, hearings and trials are not typically part of the process. The result of a Title IX investigation is usually a decision or resolution reached by the institution conducting the investigation.
- Right to appeal
Students and employees who wish to appeal a decision regarding a Title IX complaint have the right to do so. The appeal must be filed within ten days of receiving the decision. The appeal should include the reason for challenging the decision and any relevant evidence. Depending on the school, the appeal may be heard by an independent panel of administrators, faculty, and/or external experts. The decision of the appeal panel is final.