Defending College Students In Title IX Actions
Some may think of college as a place of consequence-free alcohol consumption and unbridled sexual behavior. However, this could not be further from the truth. Behavior on college campuses is currently under the microscope. The increased attention has made allegations of sexual misconduct more damaging than ever before. If you face allegations involving Title IX, it is crucial to make sure you understand your rights and your defense options. The accusations you face today – regardless of their merit or lack thereof – can result in long-term damage to your reputation, your rights and your ability to make a living.
At Summers, Rufolo & Rodgers Attorneys at Law in Chattanooga, we have experience representing students at universities throughout Tennessee facing Title IX actions with or without criminal charges. We work closely with the accused as well as their parents to minimize their exposure to legal, educational and personal damage. You can rely on us to pursue a timely and effective solution to your Title IX case so you can resume working toward your goals.
Our firm has experience with Title IX cases in the college setting. These include violations for sexual misconduct, including harassment, date rape, sexual assault, stalking and domestic violence. Allegations can relate to on or off campus activity among students and sometimes and a student and former student.
What Is Title IX?
Title IX refers to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, civil rights legislation that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any educational institution or program that receives federal funding. This applies to college campuses that receive any federal funding, providing a powerful tool for pursuing allegations of sexual misconduct on campuses in Tennessee and throughout the nation. The potential consequences of such allegations go far beyond public embarrassment and disciplinary action by your school. They can be coupled with or lead to criminal charges and the potential of being a registered sex offender. Even without criminal charges, your ability to attend school, be on campus, participate in sports or other extracurricular activities, or even to graduate all hang in the balance.
Experienced Defense Against Allegations Of Sexually-Based Offenses
Our firm provides the accused with skilled representation without judgment. We understand that accusations are just that – accusations – and everyone should be treated as innocent until proven guilty. We have experience defending students against damaging accusations of misconduct such as:
- Sexual harassment
- Date rape
- Sexual assault
- Stalking
- Domestic violence
The only way to ensure you receive due process is to have an experienced attorney advocating for you. If someone at your college or university is advising you that it’s best to “keep the lawyers out of it,” you can be assured one thing: They are not looking out for your best interests. Unlike criminal proceedings, a Title IX case does not guarantee you a variety of rights ordinarily available to someone accused of a crime and the accusations do not generally need to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Statements you make in the Title IX proceedings may also later be used to build and prosecute a criminal case against you. This makes it even more important to get an attorney involved.
Protect Your Rights And Your Reputation
Don’t wait another day. You need an attorney to respond to the college and investigators on your behalf. Call 423-265-2385 to arrange your consultation with an experienced defense lawyer.