Pennsylvania Sexual Harassment Lawyer >> Sexual Harassment at School
Sexual Harassment At School
School is supposed to be a safe place, where you can focus on learning. When teachers, employees, or other students are permitted to interfere with that learning through sexual exploitation, they are breaking the law, and Cross Law Firm is here to help you obtain justice.
What Is Title IX?
Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits gender-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal funding. Since 1972, Title IX has been significantly impacting educational settings, making sure everyone, regardless of their gender, gets a fair chance in all areas of education. Title IX not only ensures gender equity in athletic programs but also deals with sexual harassment and sexual violence in schools and universities. Title IX is key in promoting a safe and equitable educational environment by mandating schools to provide equal opportunities and protections to all students and educational professionals, allowing them to speak out if they witness or experience discrimination or harassment.
Steps Involved in a Title IX Case
Title IX proceedings in educational institutions involve handling sex-based discrimination complaints, including sexual harassment and sexual assault. The process starts when someone files a Title IX Complaint, and then the school’s Title IX office assesses the complaint to see if it fits under Title IX. If it does, a Title IX Investigation starts where the required evidence is gathered, like, texts, emails and statements, and a live hearing is held. Both the person who complained (the complainant) and the one accused (the respondent) get to have advisors, maybe even lawyers, to help them out. During the hearing, both sides get to tell their story and present evidence and witnesses. After that, the decision is made by a panel, with sanctions varying from campus restrictions to expulsion. If someone’s not happy with the decision, they can appeal. This process can change depending on the current federal policies.