What to Do if You Receive a Title IX Complaint

What Do I Do if a Title IX Complaint Was Filed Against Me?

Responding to Title IX Complaints to Defend Yourself

Being accused of a Title IX violation can be numbingly terrifying. With your academic and professional career and reputation in jeopardy, it’s important to handle the situation appropriately.

The complainant may have filed their complaint with the university directly or with the United States Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR). They may even choose to file a private lawsuit in place of either complaint. Whatever the case, it’s critical to get the proper representation from an experienced attorney at Parisi, Coan & Saccocio, PLLC.

Whether your accuser went to the OCR or school to file the complaint, the school is required to act immediately in response. Your school’s handbook should outline procedures for addressing accusations.

If your school receives federal funding, they will have a coordinator devoted to handling Title IX investigations. This individual will typically:

  • Interview both parties and any witnesses
  • Examine gathered evidence
  • Decide if a Title IX infraction occurred
  • Recommend punishments or next steps for the university

These could range from no contact letters to disqualification from extracurricular involvement, even so far as expulsion from the university. If law enforcement is involved in the campus investigation, criminal charges could also arise.

While you’re enduring the process as decided by your university, you should be cognizant of activities that could harm your case. During a Title IX investigation, it’s important that you:

  • Contact our lawyer before speaking to the Title IX department
  • Compile all communication with or about your accuser
  • Find relevant witnesses and evidence

Contact our attorneys to build your defense. We’ll apply a dedicated focus to working towards avoiding criminal charges. In addition, we’ll aim to preserve your enrollment in school and allow you to continue your academic career. We will be by your side to fight for your future. Contact Parisi, Coan & Saccocio, PLLC for help today.