TITLE IX EXPLAINED

Title IX prohibits sex discrimination and applies to universities, colleges, schools, local and state educational agencies, and other institutions that receive federal financial assistance from the Department of Education. 

The applications of Title IX have evolved to prohibit sexual harassment or assault on college campuses. This includes any unwelcome sexual conduct, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. 

Betsy DeVos, Trump’s former Secretary of Education, made changes to Title IX effective August 14, 2020 that increased protections for those accused of sexual harassment and assault. For example, the new rules provide for a live hearing with the right to cross-examination by an advisor. Revisions were also made to the definition of sexual harassment to include dating violence, domestic violence and stalking. The Biden administration is in the midst of issuing new guidelines on handling sexual harassment complaints on college campuses.  

Fran Ward has an excellent record defending those who face Title IX allegations and can help navigate the ever-changing Title IX guidelines and rules. Once you receive notice of allegations from a university, you should immediately contact an attorney. If found responsible for a sexual misconduct violation, the impacts of sanctions can have devastating and long-term consequences on your future.