New Jersey Title IX Attorney
New Brunswick firm assists individuals accused of school-based gender discrimination
Title IX is supposed to guard against gender-related misconduct in educational settings, but the mere fact that someone alleges a Title IX violation doesn’t mean the charges are true. Whether you’re a student, faculty or staff member, Eric B. Morrell in New Brunswick is a New Jersey Title IX attorney you can count on to defend you effectively in these proceedings.
Title IX investigations at New Jersey colleges and universities
Title IX is a civil rights law that protects against sex discrimination in educational institutions that accept federal funding, including Rutgers, Princeton, NJIT, TCNJ, Montclair, Monmouth University, Seton Hall, Rowan and various community colleges. Each institution has its own system and investigations under this law begin when the alleged victim files a complaint. Common allegations in these cases include sexual discrimination, harassment, unwelcome sexual advances, stalking, retaliation and dating violence.
Student rights during a New Jersey Title IX process
If you’re a student targeted by a Title IX investigation, you’re entitled to receive a detailed description of the alleged misconduct and an opportunity to respond. You may review the witness statements and other evidence against you, and submit your own evidence. If the investigator finds sufficient cause to move forward with the charge against you, you’re entitled to a formal hearing at which you may be represented by counsel and will have the right to cross-examine witnesses against you and to present evidence in your favor.
Defending against Title IX sexual misconduct allegations
As a NJ college student defense lawyer, I will advise and represent you throughout the Title IX process, including during your interview and at the hearing, and will present the best defense I can on your behalf. This may include challenging the credibility of witnesses and evidence against you, pointing out any inconsistencies on the complainant’s part, and objecting to any procedural errors.
Title IX hearings, appeals and disciplinary outcomes
The hearing officer will then decide if there is sufficient evidence to prove the charge. If the hearing officer does not find a Title IX violation, they must dismiss the charges. If you’re found responsible for committing the alleged misconduct, potential penalties include suspension, expulsion and inclusion of the finding in your academic records. Either the complainant or respondent may appeal an adverse decision if the process involved procedural errors or on any other ground the school allows for appeal. Because the deadline for appeal is usually short, I will file it as soon as possible after receiving the decision. My experience as a Middlesex County criminal defense attorney can help me identify flaws in the case against you.
Title IX representation for faculty and staff in New Jersey
When a school employee is accused of sexual misconduct or retaliation against a student alleging gender-related misconduct, they are also subject to Title IX. There might also be parallel human resources and union processes imposed by the school or by employment contract. In that case, I will vigorously contest the charges and protect my client’s rights.
Contact a New Brunswick Title IX attorney for a free consultation
The Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell in New Brunswick represents clients throughout New Jersey who face charges under Title IX. Please call 908-768-3837 or contact me online for your complimentary consultation.
