Title IX / College Discipline Practice - Warshaw Burstein LLP | Student Complainants
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Student Complainants

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I was sexually assaulted by another student in my dorm room. I am considering reporting it to the school. Do I need a lawyer?

You do not need a lawyer to make a report of sexual assault with your school. However, some complainants feel more comfortable having a lawyer to guide them through the process, advocate for their needs, advise them of the right questions to ask the school, and provide moral support. An experienced college disciplinary lawyer will provide support and guide you through the process.
 

I was sexually assaulted by another student, but the incident took place off campus. Do I still have the right to file a complaint against this person?

The location of the incident, whether on- or off-campus, does not diminish your rights under Title IX if the effects of the sexual assault are affecting your educational opportunities. An experienced college disciplinary lawyer will advise you of your rights and help you advocate for protection in school.
 

I share the same dorm hall with someone who sexually assaulted me. I don’t feel like I can live on campus anymore. What can my school do to help?

If you were sexually assaulted and do not feel safe on campus, you should consider making a report to your school and/or the local police authorities. Depending on the facts of your situation, the school may be able to offer interim measures, such as a no contact order, change in dorm assignments to you or the other party, etc. Most schools require that you file a complaint with the Title IX office first before the school can offer such interim measures. An experienced college disciplinary lawyer will help you advocate for appropriate interim measures.
 

I was sexually harassed by someone who used to be a friend. I notified my resident advisor, but nothing has been done to stop the harassment. What are my options?

Although you notified your resident advisor, he/she may not have mandatory reporting duties. Moreover, the authority of a resident advisor, without the involvement of your school’s Title IX office, is limited. If you are still experiencing sexual harassment, you should consider making a report to your school to stop the harassment. An experienced college disciplinary lawyer will help you make a report to your school and advise you of the potential options at your disposal.