What to do if you are accused of sexual misconduct.
Learning you are named in a Title IX case or are accused of sexual misconduct can be a challenging and stressful experience. Your responses to these allegations are normal reactions to a difficult situation. There are resources to assist you navigate the process and deal with the emotional responses.
Click on plus button at the bottom of this Accordion BLOCK (not accordion tab) to create a new tab. Select Accordion TAB block to edit tab headline. Select nested blocks within accordion tab to edit content.
-
You can speak to the Civil Rights and Title IX Coordinator who is trained to help you understand your rights, explain the processes, and refer you to campus and community resources you may need. Email [email protected] or call 864-503-7193.
-
In addition to helping explain your rights and the processes, the Civil Rights and Title Coordinator can refer you to resources for counseling, coordinate supportive measures (academic, housing, work), and assist with providing necessary accommodations for special needs. Additionally, you may request a No Contact Order with others who are part of the process. Finally, the Coordinator can provide you with an Advisor to assist throughout the process (you may also choose your own).
-
Similar resources are available to employees – addressing work locations and duties, providing counseling through the University’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and an opportunity to meet with the University’s Director of Employee Relations. The Title IX Coordinator can assist you in accessing resources to understand your options as an employee. Employee Respondents are also provided an Advisor to assist with the process, or they may choose their own.
-
There is no legal requirement for confidentiality, but the information shared is private and, like all your educational records, only shared with others as needed. For example, when reaching out to faculty the Coordinator does not provide details of the case or the allegations, just states that you are experiencing some difficulties and need assistance.
-
You have the right to due process, meaning you have the right to notification of allegations and an opportunity to respond. You also have the right to understand University processes and to identify witnesses and provide evidence on your behalf. You also have the right to supportive services, including counseling.
-
This is a personal decision. The University process is administrative and not a criminal legal process. It is very different from court proceedings and the hearing process does not include a prosecutor. If you are considering hiring an attorney, the Coordinator can refer you to sources that may better explain your options.
-
The University does everything possible to complete processes in a timely manner, while being diligent and thorough in its processes. If your case is undergoing a full investigation, the time depends upon how many people the investigator must interview (parties and witnesses) and what evidence must be reviewed. You will be updated regularly about the status of the process. Remember that University policy allows for specific time frames for evidence review and the time between release of the final report and the hearing. Because of all these factors, it is difficult to determine how long a process will take.
If you accept responsibility for the allegations or are involved in an informal process (not an option when an employee is alleged to have harmed a student), the process take significantly less time.
-
Anger is a common emotion whenever someone has been accused of sexual misconduct. While anger is a normal response, the important factor is how you process through the anger. Challenge yourself to deal with your anger in healthy, productive ways such as speaking with a friend, family member, or counselor. Engage in positive outlets for your anger energy, such as meeting friends or working out, instead of engaging in self-destructive behavior.
It is normal to experience fear of the unknown since the outcome of the process could impact you status at the University. You may also be concerned about how the allegation could impact how others perceive you, or have concerns about retaliation. If you feel as though you are being retaliated against, contact the Title IX Coordinator. Retaliation in any form and against or between any party is not tolerated.
Because of everything happening, you may feel there is an impact on your daily life. It might be challenging to pay attention in class or at work, you may feel more anxious, tired, stressed, or depressed than usual. Accommodations may be available to help ease the effects of the process on your life at the University. If you have questions regarding accommodations, please contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX.
Sometime people alleged to have violated policy withdraw from their support and social networks and experience isolation. You may not want to discuss the situation with anyone because you are embarrassed or are unsure how it may be perceived by others. Taking with a counselor or advisor may help you process your experiences and feelings. During a process, it is important to stay connected with the things and people that bring you joy and contentment.
May respondents worry about how the outcome will impact their reputation, work pursuits, or other activities. Concerns about future implications are understandable, and you can talk with the Coordinator about how and when the University discloses a student or employee’s association with a Title IX process.
The most important thing to remember is that you have due process rights in University processes, there is support available, and the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX is always available to answer questions and provide assistance.