Ithaca Title IX Attorneys

Defending Students from Title IX Accusations in Tompkins County

If you are facing a Title IX accusation, the next few months will not be easy. However, we can step in and make the process as stress-free and efficient as possible. Our founder, Attorney Charles Kee, has over a decade of experience defending clients accused of crimes. We have handled everything from homicides to complex fraud investigations. We can protect your rights as a student and ensure the Title IX investigation and hearing are conducted appropriately. Our team is ready to strategize an effective legal plan for you.

Facing a Title IX accusation? Schedule an initial consultation online or at (800) 954-5724 with one of our experienced Ithaca Title IX lawyers today.

What Is Title IX?

Title IX of the Education Amendments (1972) is a federal law that aims to prohibit discrimination based on sex in federal education programs and activities. 

The language of the law reads:

“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

Title IX has expanded in recent years to investigate sexual misconduct on campuses, such as sexual assault and sexual violence. This is because sexual misconduct is considered a form of Title IX discrimination that prevents the affected student from properly participating in their educational program.

Some examples of Title IX cases include:

• sexual assault and harassment;
• inequitable treatment or funding of athletic programs;
• pregnancy discrimination;
• employment discrimination;
• bullying;
• disparate disciplinary policies based on gender.

A key component of a Title IX case is the investigation, which may involve campus staff members talking separately to students involved in the incident, asking them to prepare a written statement, and asking for any information or evidence some students may have (e.g., text messages, social media posts). Note that sexual harassment Title IX cases require that the Department of Education’s Title IX team conduct a separate investigation in addition to the school’s investigation. 

What Are The Steps in Title IX?

With Title IX sexual harassment cases, schools are required to engage in extensive investigations by interviewing suspects, collecting witness statements, gathering concrete evidence, and providing the accused with a fair hearing. 

The hearing will determine the consequences for the accused, which could be any of the following:

• suspension or expulsion from university;
• criminal charges that require sex offender registration;
• denial for admission to another university.

Title IX proceedings can be complex and confusing to navigate, especially when you are still studying in classes and facing social stigma from classmates. It can be hard to get your head clear, so it is best to work with an experienced Ithaca Title IX defense attorney. The Law Office of Charles H. Kee can protect your rights to due process and navigate the campus disciplinary investigation and hearing procedures that may even last for over a year.

How to Defend Against a Title IX Complaint?

If you have been accused of a Title IX violation in college, the most important thing to do is remain calm and get informed. Understand what rights you have and the details of the accusation. Talk to an attorney who handles Title IX matters or a student affairs representative at your institution for assistance throughout the process. 

Gather as much information as possible on your situation, including any evidence that proves your innocence or supports your story. Be sure to keep records of any communications between yourself, witnesses, victims, and faculty members involved with the incident. Make note of anything that could be seen as mitigating circumstances, such as previous good behavior or extenuating mental health issues related to the offense, which can be used in court. 

Be prepared to be interviewed by the institution. Know that you have the right to remain silent and not to incriminate yourself. Anything said during an interview could be used against you so it is important to get advice from a lawyer beforehand. Most universities allow students to bring an attorney or advisor with them during their hearing, which can provide an extra layer of support throughout the process. 

Lastly, understand that you may face disciplinary measures if found guilty of a Title IX violation, such as temporary suspension, expulsion, or probation. Be sure to look into your college’s policies on Title IX violations and understand what kind of punishment you may face if found guilty. If so, consider appealing the decision to preserve your reputation and future. 

By understanding your rights and gathering evidence, you can make the best decision for your situation when accused of a Title IX violation in college for a sex crime. Seek legal help immediately, and do not hesitate to speak up if something doesn't seem right.

Providing Skilled Defense Against Title IX Charges

You’re only a student. You might not know how severely the law handles your case and what may await you after the investigation. You have certain rights as a defendant, and a Title IX defense attorney can make sure those rights are protected throughout every step of the Title IX case. For instance, you are entitled to a fair and impartial Title IX investigation. We can initiate complaints if the investigation has been mishandled or a hearing engaged inappropriately.

If you have been accused of sexual harassment or any other Title IX case, contact The Law Office of Charles H. Kee immediately. It is critical to have an experienced Ithaca Title IX lawyer on your side before any important actions are taken against you. As a student, you may not know your rights as a defendant and how to combat unfair charges against you; this is where we step in. We will guide you through every step of the Title IX investigation and hearing and do our best to protect your rights and future.

If you've been accused of sexual harassment, call (800) 954-5724 or contact one of our Ithaca Title IX lawyers online to learn more.