Emory University Title IX Lawyers

At Emory University, students are taught how to become better problem solvers so that they can change the world for the better. Emory University is one of the most-funded research facilities, a leader in humanities, and a major source of innovation and collaboration. As such, they expect their students to uphold certain academic and professional standards. If a student is accused of violating one of their standards, Emory is keen to resolve the issue quickly.

When accepted to Emory University, you are focused on starting lifelong friendships, achieving academic excellence, and learning to care for yourself. You are not thinking about the possibility of being disciplined. Thus, when you are accused of something, it can be extremely jarring – especially if you are accused of a Title IX violation. Don’t fret. Capovilla & Williams can help. Call today.

What is Title IX 

The Title IX federal regulation governs how federally funded educational institutions, like high schools, colleges, and universities, resolve complaints of sex-based discrimination. Though the exact definition of “sex-based discrimination” differs from school to school, at Emory, it includes the following conduct:

• Sexual harassment
• Domestic violence
• Intimate partner violence
• Sexual assault
• Stalking
• Gender-based bullying

According to Title IX, other common examples of sex-based discrimination include discrimination based on pregnancy, discrimination in STEM programs and courses, and failing to offer students equal athletic opportunities.

If Emory doesn’t resolve complaints of sex-based discrimination using the exact steps described in Title IX, the government could drop federal funding. As such, most schools are motivated to adjudicate claims even when there is little evidence or witness testimony to support them for fear of failing to follow the government’s rules. And sadly, this can lead to students being accused – and disciplined – for conduct that never happened.

The Title IX Disciplinary Process 

The Title IX Coordinator at Emory University oversees the complaint, investigation, and disciplinary process for Title IX violations. Once they receive a complaint, they will meet with the complainant to interview them and gather more information about the alleged incident. If they determine that the complaint falls within the scope of Title IX, they will ask the complainant to file a formal complaint against the accused student. Sometimes, though, complainants decide to drop the issue at this point. Still, the Title IX Coordinator has the option to file the complaint themselves if they believe there is enough to support a further investigation.

After the formal complaint has been filed by either the complainant or the Coordinator, the Coordinator will appoint a Title IX Investigator to perform the formal investigation. During the formal investigation, the Investigator will meet with both the complainant and the accused student to gather more information, relevant evidence, and witness testimony. At the end of their investigation, they will deliver their report to the Title IX Coordinator and suggest whether a disciplinary hearing is the next appropriate step or if the matter should be dropped.

If the Coordinator and Investigator agree that a disciplinary hearing is the next reasonable step, the Coordinator will appoint a hearing panel and schedule the hearing. Both sides can present their arguments at the hearing, including witness testimony and evidence that supports their case. It is incredibly important to prepare for the hearing, including working with a skilled Title IX defense attorney who can help negotiate on your behalf. Unfortunately, many students show up thinking they can wing it and end up suffering harsh consequences.

Once the complainant and accused student have been heard fully, the hearing panel will meet separately to determine if the evidence supports the accused conduct and, if so, what punishments to impose. At Emory, punishments can include anything from a reprimand, warning, or loss of university privileges to revoking a degree, expelling or suspending the student, or removing them from student housing.

Whatever the hearing panel’s decision, it can be appealed. The exact instructions for an appeal will be included in the notice of the hearing panel’s decision.

How an Experienced Title IX Defense Law Firm Can Help

At Capovilla & Williams, we understand how difficult and confusing Title IX violation accusations can be for students. We will work tirelessly to ensure our clients understand the accusations against them and are fully prepared to defend themselves, guaranteeing them the best possible outcome. Call 855-218-6432 today or schedule a free consultation online.