Title IX Considerations for Parents in Connecticut
Learning that your child is involved in a Title IX case can be overwhelming, especially if it is your first time dealing with legal action. Whether your child is accused of misconduct at school or is filing a complaint, navigating the complexities of Title IX can be challenging. Unfortunately, as a parent, there may be limited actions you can take without guidance from an experienced legal professional.
Whether your child is the subject of a complaint or is making one, it is essential to understand your role in the process and how you can support your child. Here are some key Title IX considerations for parents in Connecticut, along with how a seasoned Title IX attorney can help.
Will Schools Inform Parents About Title IX Investigations?
In most cases, schools do not report Title IX investigations to the parents of Connecticut students involved. In fact, schools are often legally prohibited from contacting parents or family members without the student’s consent. If your child is over 18, the only way for you to receive information about their case is if they give explicit permission. This would include signing a Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) release form, allowing the school to share information with you.
What Can a Title IX Investigation Lead To?
The goal of a Title IX investigation is to determine if a student’s rights were violated due to sex-based discrimination or harassment and, if so, to provide protective measures. Schools may impose disciplinary actions like suspension or expulsion of the accused, but there is no standard outcome. The measures taken depend on the specifics of the case. It is important to note that Title IX cases are school-based disciplinary actions and do not result in criminal penalties such as fines or jail time, unlike criminal cases.
Do Title IX Cases Result in Criminal Charges?
Title IX violations do not automatically lead to criminal charges, even if the alleged behavior could also be a crime under Connecticut law. Criminal cases require a higher standard of proof than school disciplinary proceedings. As a result, it’s possible for a student to be found responsible for a Title IX violation without facing criminal charges for the same actions. On the other hand, it is possible for Title IX cases to run simultaneously with a criminal case or even a civil case. When there are multiple actions pending, it can be even more confusing to navigate. A Title IX Attorney who also practices criminal law, like those at Mark Sherman Law, can help.
Should Parents Hire an Attorney for a Title IX Case?
If your child is over 18 and grants you permission to be involved in their Connecticut Title IX case, you may serve as an “advisor” during the process. However, schools typically allow only one advisor in these proceedings, meaning your child will have to choose between having a parent or a legal representative by their side.
Given the complexities of Title IX cases, it is often best to let an experienced defense attorney guide your child through the process. A skilled lawyer can protect your child’s rights and help ensure the best possible outcome. Legal representation is critical, as even minor missteps during the proceedings can have serious consequences for your child’s future.
Contact a Connecticut Title IX Attorney for Help With Considerations for Parents
A Title IX case can be stressful for both the student and their family. While parents may want to help, the best support often comes from allowing a knowledgeable attorney to take the lead. Our team can ensure your child’s rights are protected and help navigate the complicated legal process.
For more information on Title IX considerations for parents in Connecticut, contact Mark Sherman Law today for a consultation, and click here to visit our Avvo.com profile to read verified reviews from past clients.