Dealing With The Serious Ramifications Of Campus Sexual Assault Allegations

Accusations of sexual misconduct can ruin your life. For college students facing these accusations, much is on the line: your reputation, your education, your liberties, your job prospects, your future.

Campus sexual assault cases are all the more serious because they often involve two levels of proceedings. You may be facing a police investigation and potential criminal charges. On top of that, you may face a separate investigation by the school itself, even if you’re cleared of criminal charges.

Title IX — the federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in education — requires schools to take action regarding accusations of sexual assault. This may mean:

• A formal disciplinary investigation and hearing
• A no-contact order requiring you to stay away from the alleged victim
• Potential suspension or expulsion

Given what’s at stake, it’s critical to have a knowledgeable legal team by your side throughout the process.

Work With Legal Allies Who Know What’s At Stake

Our defense attorneys at the Bellwoar Kelly, LLP understand how to handle these sensitive matters at both the criminal and school disciplinary levels. Drawing on our experience as former prosecutors, we can anticipate what to expect and help you develop the best approach for your situation.

Our attorneys represent both students and faculty members confronted with these serious accusations.

Understanding The Challenges Ahead

Title IX proceedings are much different from a police investigation. They don’t offer you the same rights and protections as the criminal justice system. For example, instead of having to find you guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, the Title IX administrators only need to find it’s more likely than not that the accusations are true — a much looser standard.

Many of these situations involve gray areas. They often come down to credibility — that is, “he said versus she said” scenarios where life-altering decisions hinge on whose story is more believable. What’s more, unlike in a criminal trial, you won’t have as robust an opportunity to question the complainant and present a strong defense.

In short, it can be an uphill battle — one you won’t want to face alone.

Don’t Wait To Get Help

If you’ve been accused of sexual assault, the time to get a lawyer is now, even if charges haven’t yet been filed. The sooner we’re involved, the more opportunities we have to prevent a bad situation from becoming even worse.

Contact our legal team in West Chester, Pennsylvania, for a free consultation. You can also call us at 610-314-7066. We’re available 24/7 to address your concerns.