As the first Catholic university in the United States staffed by the laity, Sacred Heart has a rich history of religious advancement and academic success. Like all federally funded universities in this country, Sacred Heart has stringent procedures for addressing instances of sexual harassment, discrimination, and abuse on campus. Unfortunately, these procedures are not always as supportive of individuals experiencing sexual misconduct as they ought to be.
If you have experienced sexual mistreatment or violence while attending Sacred Heart as a student or faculty member, it is essential to discuss your legal options with a Sacred Heart University Title IX lawyer. Title IX claims differ significantly from standard criminal proceedings, and the support of an experienced Title IX attorney could be crucial in ensuring you get the best possible outcome for your unique claim.
What Protections Does Title IX Provide?
The primary purpose of Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments is to prevent sex-based discrimination in federally funded educational programs throughout the United States. One well-known way Title IX pursues this goal is by mandating that federally funded schools provide equitable support for men’s and women’s athletic programs.
However, this federal legislation imposes strict requirements for how schools must receive, investigate, and address allegations of sexual misconduct made by students or faculty members against one another. These requirements include:
- Appointing a permanent Title IX Coordinator—which at Sacred Heart is the Director of Title IX Compliance—to oversee and facilitate Title IX case proceedings;
- Providing ways for students and faculty members to report Title IX violations confidentially;
- Ensuring a fair and balanced investigation process into allegations of Title IX violations, typically ending with a disciplinary hearing; and/or
- Providing reasonable accommodations for complainants to minimize disruption to their academic career during an investigation.
A Title IX attorney can provide more information during a confidential consultation regarding the rights and protections of a particular complainant or respondent in a Sacred Heart University Title IX claim.
Pursuing a Title IX Claim at Sacred Heart
It is possible to report sexual misconduct at Sacred Heart without filing a formal Title IX complaint within the University’s formal grievance process. Complainants who make informal reports can still receive supportive measures, such as counseling, class and work schedule adjustments, and escort services. However, filing a formal complaint is the only way for the Director of Title IX Compliance to initiate an investigation using school resources.
Following an investigation, the Director will schedule a live hearing in which adjudicators will review all available evidence—including statements and cross-examinations from the involved parties—to determine the appropriate long-term remedies and corrective action. During this hearing, a Title IX lawyer can serve as the advisor for a complainant or a respondent at Sacred Heart University to help protect their rights and advocate for their best interests.
Contact a Sacred Heart University Title IX Attorney for Help
Navigating a Title IX case can be a uniquely intimidating experience, especially if you have never participated in any legal proceedings before. Fortunately, support is available from experienced legal professionals who have helped many people like you achieve favorable results from claims similar to yours.
Whether you are filing a Title IX complaint or have been named in one, do not try to handle the situation without the help of a Sacred Heart University Title IX lawyer. Call Mark Sherman Law today to discuss your options, and click here to read some of the 300+ verified reviews from satisfied past clients on our Avvo.com profile.