Title IX is a federal regulation that states “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Title IX applies to both public and private universities that receive federal funding. This means if your college accepts a federally funded loan, they are to follow Title IX regulations. Additionally, each school should have a Title IX coordinator that ensures that the federal regulation is followed. The most common instances of Title IX cases that present to my office are students facing allegations of harassment, stalking and non-consensual sex. These are serious allegations that can forever change the lives of those involved. Especially those who are falsely accused of a Title IX allegation.

What Happens After Someone Makes A Title IX Allegation?

Reports of the Title IX violation are investigated, and a hearing is held in front of a university committee. This is not a court of law and these situations are often stacked against the accused student, even with weak evidence. There is a low standard for a guilty finding in these college committee hearings, and students who are accused often end up expelled from school with no hope for admission to another university. If you are accused of a Title IX violation, contact Asselta Law P.A. today. Attorney Richard Asselta offers Title IX allegation support and university committee hearing representation nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Title IX Defense

Students facing Title IX allegations often have many questions about their rights and the process ahead. Here are answers to some of the most common questions the firm receives from clients:

What is the Title IX investigation timeline?

Most institutions follow a timeline that includes notification of allegations within five to 10 days, an investigation phase of 30 to 60 days, a hearing within 15 to 30 days after the investigation and a decision within 10 to 14 days after the hearing.

Some schools promise resolution within 60 days, but complex cases often take longer. Throughout this process, you may face interim measures such as no-contact orders or temporary suspensions.

Can I have legal representation at a Title IX hearing?

You have the right to an adviser of your choice, which can be an attorney, though their role may be limited depending on institutional policies. While your attorney cannot always speak during proceedings, they can guide you in responding to questions and help prepare your defense.

The 2020 Title IX regulations expanded attorney participation rights at many institutions, but these rules vary between schools.

What rights do accused students have?

Accused students generally have the right to access evidence gathered during the investigation, present witnesses and evidence, review the investigation report before the hearing, and appeal adverse decisions under certain circumstances.

You should also receive written notice of allegations with sufficient detail and time to prepare a response. These rights vary significantly between institutions, making it important to understand the specific policies at your school.

How do Title IX proceedings differ from criminal cases?

Title IX proceedings use a lower burden of proof, typically “preponderance of evidence” (51% likelihood) rather than “beyond reasonable a doubt.” These are administrative proceedings, not criminal trials, though they can occur simultaneously with criminal investigations.

Hearings are conducted by university personnel, not judges or juries. Sanctions focus on academic penalties such as suspension or expulsion rather than incarceration.

What should I do if I receive a Title IX complaint?

If you receive a Title IX complaint, do not contact the complainant or potential witnesses. Preserve all communications, including texts, emails and social media interactions. Avoid discussing the case on social media or with others at your institution.

Contact an experienced Title IX defense attorney immediately before providing any statements. Review your school’s Title IX policy to understand the specific procedures you will face.

Call now for a free consultation and start building your Title IX defense today: Call.