Recent changes in Title IX guidelines released by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) require careful consideration by both educational institutions and students. The DOE has substantially changed the parameters for the legal treatment of allegations of sexual misconduct and sex-based discrimination on campuses. The risks of non-compliance for schools include significant brand damage, federal investigation by the Department of Justice Office of Civil Rights, decreased donor contributions, suppressed faculty and student recruitment as well as potential student disruption. For students, an accusation and violation could lead to suspension, expulsion, a permanent mark on their official transcripts, and severe obstacles to admission to other higher learning institutions, as well as potential criminal prosecution.
Our attorneys counsel clients on ways to establish and follow policies and procedures for meeting Title IX compliance; establish standards and protocols for investigating and handling claims; and in cases of alleged violations, ensure the proper policies and procedures are followed.
