Title IX, a Federal civil rights law, outlaws discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or activities that get federal financial assistance. This may consist of sexual violence or harassment, including sexual assault, rape, sexual coercion, and sexual battery. Title IX is crucial in promoting safe, equitable educational settings by directing schools to offer protections and opportunities to all education professionals and students.
The law allows them to speak if they experience or witness harassment or discrimination. If your rights are violated, you’re entitled to file a complaint. Discussed below is how to file a Title IX complaint.
1. Hire a professional
Filing a Title IX complaint isn’t easy. It requires an in-depth understanding of the Title X law and school policies regarding violations. Without the right skills and knowledge, navigating the Title IX complaint filing process can be challenging. This is where Title IX services come in. A skilled lawyer can help you:
- Evaluate your claim
- Navigate a school’s Title IX policies
- File a complaint with the learning institution or Office of Civil Rights
- Represent you at disciplinary hearings
- File a civil lawsuit
2. Submit your complaint to the school coordinator
Once your attorney evaluates your claim and okays it, submit it to your school coordinator. There are various ways through which you can file your complaint, including:
- Online forms, which are usually available on the school website
- Anonymous reporting systems
- Directly to the school coordinator
After receiving your complaint, the Title IX coordinator will review the details therein to determine if the conduct you reported falls under the proper scope. If your complaint meets the requirements for sex-based discrimination, the coordinator will send a formal notification to the respondent notifying them of the allegations.
3. Attend the initial interview
Interview processes differ from one school to another and may be conducted via Zoom or in person. During the interview, you’ll be required to respond to several questions about what happened.
4. Find witnesses and gather evidence
During the investigation process, you’ll be required to show that your Title IX rights were violated. You should provide the following:
● A list of witnesses
Your list of witnesses may include anyone who witnessed the incident or saw you alone or with the accused shortly after or before the incident. The list may also include those you spoke with after the incident, but only if you told them about it or sought their help. If you sought medical assistance, the doctor or nurse can be your witness. However, before adding any potential witnesses to the list, consult them to determine if they’re ready to be interviewed. Don’t forget to include their contact information.
● Evidence
You’ll be required to provide any documentary proof you have to the investigator, including:
- Written documents
- Audio files
- Photos
- Screenshots of messages
- The accused person’s DNA, if available
5. Write a response
Once the investigator reviews the evidence and speaks with the witnesses and the respondent, they’ll send you a summary statement that you’re required to read and respond to. When writing the response, consider consulting the school’s Title IX or sexual misconduct policy and focus on what needs to be established to get you justice. Upon submitting your response, wait for a hearing date.
Endnote
If your rights have been violated, you have the legal authority to file a complaint. Consider following this guide for assistance on how to file a Title IX complaint.
