Title IX Investigations Versus Criminal Charges at UConn
Being accused of violating someone else’s Title IX rights while studying or working at the University of Connecticut (UConn) can feel like being accused of a crime, especially if you have never been in legal trouble. However, there are important differences between Title IX investigations versus criminal investigations at UConn. There are also differences on how both are prosecuted in Connecticut. Understanding these differences can help you enforce your rights more effectively.
With that in mind, here is a brief overview of what makes Title IX cases unique when compared to criminal prosecutions in terms of how each case works practically and what repercussions an adjudication of guilt could have in each scenario. If you need help protecting your best interests during Title IX proceedings at UConn, an attorney from Mark Sherman Law can be a steadfast ally throughout the case process.
Title IX Procedures and Penalties Versus Criminal Cases
Title IX is federally enforced by the United States Department of Education. However, investigations of alleged Title IX violations and the administration of sanctions against respondents found guilty of such breaches are left to individual schools covered by Title IX. While criminal defendants have certain rights guaranteed to them under the U.S. Constitution, Title IX respondents at UConn only have the rights offered by university policy. Currently, this does not include the right to a trial by a jury of your peers or the right to have legal counsel appointed if you cannot afford private representation.
The potential penalties that a Title IX respondent can face are much less severe than those that a criminal court could impose against a defendant convicted of violating the Connecticut Penal Code. Instead of steep fines and jail or prison time, a Title IX hearing can only result in school-level sanctions, such as loss of the right to use campus facilities, suspension or expulsion, and potential liability for fees and costs related to the school’s Title IX investigation.
What if a Title IX Violation Is Also a Criminal Offense?
In some situations, a Title IX violation also constitutes a violation of the Connecticut Penal Code. For example, if a student is accused of sexually assaulting another student inside university housing, UConn can proceed with a Title IX investigation while state authorities are conducting a criminal investigation into the matter.
That said, Title IX investigations at UConn only have to establish culpability through a preponderance of the evidence, whereas law enforcement authorities prosecuting someone on criminal charges must establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to obtain a conviction. It is possible for someone to have criminal charges against them dismissed or be acquitted after trial and still face sanctions through UConn’s Title IX proceedings.
Contact Mark Sherman Law To Discuss UConn Title IX Investigations Versus Criminal Charges
UConn Title IX investigations versus criminal charges proceed very differently. However, they are both serious matters which can have significant implications for anyone targeted by them. Without support from skilled legal representation, you are much more likely to suffer life-changing consequences from one or both types of proceedings.
Working with a Title IX lawyer from Mark Sherman Law will dramatically improve your chances of getting the most favorable outcome possible from your case. Call today to set up a meeting, or click here to read some of the 300+ verified reviews on our Avvo.com profile.