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Even an accusation under Title IX can bar you from your degree program and university. If you’re facing allegations, you need an experienced defense lawyer immediately.
Title IX is a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in education, and it applies to all colleges and universities that receive federal funding, including the University of Colorado Boulder.
Being accused of violating Title IX can have serious consequences, from suspension or expulsion to long-term damage to your academic and professional reputation.
At Dawson Law, our Title IX defense lawyers have extensive experience with the Title IX disciplinary process and are dedicated to defending the rights of students accused of sexual misconduct. We understand how much is at stake and will work tirelessly to protect your future from the potentially devastating impacts of a Title IX violation finding.
What is Title IX?
Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on sex at any educational institution receiving federal funding. While it covers issues like athletics, admissions, and academic programs, Title IX is best known for its strict policies and procedures addressing sexual harassment and sexual violence allegations.
Schools must impartially investigate all Title IX complaints through formal disciplinary hearings. However, the high-stakes nature of these cases means accusations alone can irreparably tarnish a student’s reputation before any findings of responsibility.
Defending Your Rights Against Title IX Allegations
The consequences of a Title IX sexual misconduct case make it critical for accused students to have robust due process protections. Recent amendments have codified important rights, including:
- Presumption of innocence
- Ability to review evidence and cross-examine accusers
- Right to an advisor and introduction of exculpatory evidence
- Protection from interim disciplinary actions before the completion of proceedings
Even with these safeguards, the deck can often feel stacked against you, as schools face intense public and governmental pressure to appear aggressive in addressing sexual violence. Our role as Title IX defense lawyers is to forcefully assert our client’s rights and pursue all avenues of defense.
Litigation and Appeals of Title IX Rulings
For many clients, the fight doesn’t end with the school disciplinary process. We are well-versed in challenging Title IX determinations through subsequent civil litigation avenues like:
- Lawsuits against universities for mishandled Title IX complaints
- Appeals arguing due process violations or arbitrary/capricious findings
- Litigation establishing key precedents related to Title IX interpretations
Our firm has a deep understanding of the complex Title IX legal landscape built through years of successful representation for the accused. We are fierce advocates safeguarding your future from initial notification through potential appeals.
Consequences of Title IX Allegations
Being found responsible for a Title IX violation has some heavy consequences.
- Suspended or expelled from school.
- Stripped of scholarships and financial aid.
- Dealing with a damaged reputation that could hurt your future education and career opportunities.
In addition, if the accusations against you are criminal in nature, you could also face a separate law enforcement investigation along with misdemeanor or felony charges.
It’s a lot to handle alone, so discuss your case with our defense attorneys as soon as the university advises you about the Title IX investigation.
Title IX vs. Criminal Charges
While Title IX and criminal cases may stem from the same alleged conduct, they are two distinct processes with different rules and potential consequences.
Standard of Proof
In a Title IX case, the school must determine whether the accused is responsible based on a preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not).
In a criminal case, the prosecution must prove a much higher standard of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Consequences
If found responsible in a Title IX case, you may face disciplinary action from your school, such as suspension or expulsion.
You could face legal penalties like fines and imprisonment if convicted of a crime.
Rights of the Accused
While Title IX provides some due process protections, the rights of the accused are much more extensive in a criminal case, including the right to an attorney and the right to remain silent.
If you’re facing both Title IX and criminal charges, have a Boulder defense lawyer who understands both processes, protecting your rights on all fronts.
Recent Changes to Title IX Regulations
In 2024, the US Department of Education issued new regulations that significantly changed how schools must handle Title IX cases.
Narrowed Definition of Sexual Harassment
The new rules define sexual harassment as conduct that is severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive, a higher standard than the previous definition.
Live Hearing Requirement
Colleges and universities must now hold live hearings where the accused has the right to cross-examine their accuser through an advisor.
Increased Protection for the Accused
The regulations include several provisions to protect the due process rights of accused students, such as the right to review evidence and the presumption of innocence.
These changes have made Title IX cases even more complex. A defense attorney who understands the new regulations can tell you whether they will impact your case.
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Why Specialized Title IX Defense Experience Matters
When your future is on the line, you don’t want just any lawyer – you want an attorney with deep experience in Title IX defense.
Here’s why the experience of Dawson Law matters:
Familiarity with the Process
Our Title IX defense lawyers know the Department of Education’s policies and procedures inside and out and how to navigate the complex Title IX regulations under the US Code.
Relationships with Key Players
Our criminal defense law firm has handled several Title IX cases in Boulder and established relationships with school officials, investigators, and hearing officers around Colorado, an invaluable advantage when negotiating a favorable outcome.
Proven Track Record
We have a history of successful Title IX case outcomes, know which strategies work, and build strong defenses tailored to our client’s unique situation.
When choosing a Boulder Title IX defense lawyer, don’t just look for experience – look for the right kind of experience. You want an attorney who has handled cases similar to yours and achieved positive results for their clients.
Contact Our Boulder Title IX Defense Lawyers Today
If you’re facing Title IX accusations in Colorado, remember our defense team is nearby to help.
Dawson Law will guide you through this challenging time and protect your rights throughout the university’s internal investigation.
Every day matters when it comes to building your Title IX defense and minimizing the impact of these allegations on your life.
Contact us for a consultation and case review to get the information and support you need to move forward confidently.
