Title IX Investigation Vs Criminal Charges at Sacred Heart University
Both criminal offenses and Title IX violations can have lasting repercussions for defendants and respondents. The nature of those repercussions change depending on the type of allegations brought against you, as do the procedural steps that the Connecticut court system or your school will take to investigate the matter and potentially impose sanctions against you.
Understanding the differences between a Title IX investigation vs a criminal investigation at Sacred Heart University can be crucial to effectively protect your best interests. Here is an overview of the key aspects of each case type, along with what a seasoned Title IX attorney from Mark Sherman Law can do to help structure and present a strong defense.
What Is the Standard of Proof for a Title IX Investigation?
The primary difference between criminal charges and Title IX inquiries is that the former is governed by the Connecticut justice system while the latter is the responsibility of the school—for example, Sacred Heart University. When pursuing a case, the two authorities have different standards of proof they need to meet to justify imposing sanctions.
When facing a criminal charge for something like sexual assault or harassment, the prosecution must establish your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to achieve a conviction.. Title IX investigators, however, must establish that a violation occurred by a preponderance of the evidence, which is a less strict standard that can incorporate subjective speculation or hearsay into the final verdict.
Possible Sanctions in Title IX and Criminal Cases
Another key distinction between criminal prosecution and Title IX violations at Sacred Heart University are the penalties you may face once declared or adjudicated guilty. Depending on the nature of your alleged offense(s), a criminal conviction may result in fines and a jail sentence,probation, or mandatory counseling such as anger management.
Title IX investigation consequences are restricted to disciplinary measures that a school can impose on a student or faculty member independent of local or state governing bodies. It is easier to be guilty of a Title IX violation than a criminal charge as the consequences are limited to university punishments, such as loss of on-campus privileges, suspension from school, or expulsion (in extreme cases).
Contact Our Office To Learn More About How Sacred Heart University Title IX Investigations Differ From Criminal Charges
This is not a comprehensive study of every aspect of a Title IX investigation vs criminal charges at Sacred Heart University. However, it does make clear that each case requires a distinct tactical approach if you want to maximize your chances of achieving a favorable outcome and that support from skilled legal counsel is key to achieving that.
The team at Mark Sherman Law is ready to clarify your options and fight tenaciously to preserve your prospects. Contact us today to learn what we could do for you, or click here to read verified reviews from past clients on our Avvo.com profile.