Sexual assault is a widespread problem in educational institutions, and there are many schools that would rather sweep such complaints under the rug than deal with them adequately. This is why it’s important for Title IX violations to be dealt with immediately when they come in so that the person affected by them can feel safe and know they will receive a supportive community.
Title IX violations are very serious, and not addressing them promptly is very dangerous for everyone involved. In fact, educational institutions should have policies and procedures set in place to deal with Title IX violations as soon as they are brought to the school’s attention. A Title IX lawyer from Lento Law Firm will be able to help schools frame a policy in compliance with Title IX laws.
Here are immediate actions schools or any other federally funded educational institutions should take upon receiving a complaint of Title IX violation.
- Determine what happened
It is the responsibility of the institution receiving the complaint to determine what happened. This must be done as soon as possible. Title IX lawyers have a lot of experience with handling these situations and can be very helpful in determining what happened.
- End sexual violence
It is the school’s responsibility to end sexual violence on campus and in their community. This means that school officials must take the steps necessary to end sexual violence happening inside the campus.
- Prevent its recurrence
Schools should take necessary actions to prevent the recurrence of a Title IX violation. This can be done by implementing clear and comprehensive policies to be followed in case a similar incident occurs.
- Address its effects
Schools have a legal obligation to address the effects of Title IX violations, whether they are on-campus or off. For example, institutions may need to provide ongoing counseling services for those affected by the incident. In addition, schools must ensure that people do not harass or have any other adverse reactions to those involved.
- Protect the complainant
Title IX requires schools to protect the complainant from retaliation or hostile actions by others in connection with their complaint. This can involve preventing further harassment, ensuring that others do not retaliate against the complainant, and providing protection if necessary.
- Provide a grievance procedure
Schools should provide a specific and clear grievance procedure to be followed in case someone feels they have experienced a Title IX violation. This must be detailed and thorough, as well as made available to the student body.
