Title IX – Defense, Compliance, Guidance and Litigation
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is a federal law which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. The law prohibits sexual assault and misconduct, as well as other types of discrimination. Title IX applies to all public school systems, all public higher education, and all private universities and colleges receiving federal funding—which is almost every college and university.
A Title IX accusation is a serious matter that can jeopardize your education and career prospects. If you are accused of campus sexual assault or misconduct, you most likely face suspension or expulsion from your college or university, as well as the loss of scholarships. Just the accusation of a Title IX violation frequently requires the accused student to immediately move out of his housing, results in the loss of campus leadership positions, and disqualifies the student from collegiate sports. A finding of responsibility for campus sexual misconduct can be an obstacle to gaining acceptance into another higher educational program and to obtaining a professional license or employment.
Because accused students frequently do not receive fundamental fairness or due process in Title IX proceedings, legal counsel is crucial—even if the school does not permit the attorney a formal procedural role. Under proposed federal rules which should take effect soon, all colleges and universities subject to Title IX will be required to provide basic due process protections for accused students, including a “live” hearing with cross-examination by representatives or attorneys. These schools will no longer be permitted to use the "single investigator" or "investigator-only" model in which one individual employed by the school both investigates and adjudicates an accusation of sexual misconduct.
The attorneys of Offit Kurman’s Title IX Practice Group are dedicated to upholding the legal rights of all individuals involved in Title IX proceedings. When faced with a claim, clients trust us to guide them through the complex and challenging process ahead. We have the knowledge, experience, and emotional sensitivity necessary to advocate for your rights and to protect your future.
How We Do It
Legal Advisory Services
Title IX Investigations
Compliance Guidance
Litigation
Who We Do It For
- If you need legal Title IX guidance or legal representation, Offit Kurman can help.
- If you are an accused student, it is critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible to help you navigate the process.
- If you are the parent of an accused student, an attorney can help you understand the potential impact of the matter on your child’s future, as well as the process ahead.
- If you are a school faculty member or administrator, an attorney can help you ensure Title IX compliance and effectively handle Title IX investigations.