Understanding Title IX & Your Rights

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex—including sexual assault—at all public and private schools, school districts, colleges and universities that receive federal funding. Accusations such as these are taken very seriously at schools in Missouri and can result in serious disciplinary actions, including expulsion. If you or your child in college is facing a Title X investigation, it is important you understand your rights.

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, our St. Louis criminal defense attorneys are aware of what you may be up against. Our firm has defended clients in more than 100 criminal jury cases in our 30 years of practice, so you can rest assured that we are well prepared to handle your case. We employ customized, result-driven strategies in order to work towards the most favorable outcome possible for you and your family.

Call (314) 334-3807 or contact us online today for a free consultation.

Understanding Title IX

All schools receiving funding from the United States Department of Education must follow the Education Amendments Act, which outlines Title IX guidelines. It stipulates that every student has the right to an education free of sexual discrimination, so if one student accuses another of sexual misconduct, the accuser may initiate a Title IX action.

Know Your Legal Rights

Any student under investigation for Title IX needs to understand their legal rights. If a student is suspended or expelled for disciplinary reasons, they have the right to:

1. Have their case heard under regular procedures used for all similar cases
2. Receive notice of the charges laid against them
3. Hear a description of the university’s evidence
4. Present their side of the story to an impartial hearing officer

In addition to these rights, anyone facing Title IX accusations may also have a lawyer present during their hearing and the right to review written records related to the charges prior to the hearing.

Preparing for a Disciplinary Case

Each educational institute may handle discipline differently, so it is important that anyone facing an investigation for sexual misconduct on a college campus understands the student code of that university. It is especially important that you know how long you have to prepare your defense and how you are able to present your defense.

Conducting an Investigation

Any student facing an investigation should gather and preserve any relevant information, including:

• Text messages or emails between the accuser and the accused
• Any relevant text messages or emails from friends or acquaintances that speak to your situation
• Written or recorded statements from witnesses

At The Hammer Law Firm, our St. Louis Title X defense attorneys can obtain official statements on your behalf and employ a professional investigator to help. With legal representation, you can take away much of the stress of building a case, and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Call (314) 334-3807 or contact us online for a free consultation.