Facing a sexual misconduct allegation under Title IX can be quite devastating. On-campus investigations may make you look guilty to everybody even if an investigation has yet to commence. In general, the system is meant to protect possible victims. Because of this, the accused student is often not afforded their legal rights. Hiring a defense lawyer throughout the process can ensure the rights of the accused are preserved. Also, the attorney can help answer a lot of FAQs about Title IX. Keeping informed throughout the process can help the accused prevail in the end.
What to Ask Possible Witnesses
The ideal witness for the accused can account for the time involved in the case. Thus, the accused have to think back over situations or events they probably have had in contact with the accuser. After they come up with a list of events, they should determine who was there when the event took place, whether someone they know interacted with the accusing party during the event, who they communicated with, the possible witness the accuser may call on and the reliability of the defendant’s witnesses. A defense lawyer can help the accused student with the process and talk to possible witnesses to know if they will testify.
Finding Supporting Evidence
Various kinds of communications that involve the defendant and the complainant serve as evidence. These include posts on social media, reactions to social media posts, and text messages. Videos or photos that show the event can also be used as evidence.
Other types of evidence can be utilized to demonstrate the defendant’s location or the location of the accuser. This includes tracking applications that can show locations at certain dates and times or campus entry logs. A defense lawyer can help the defendant make a timeline around the event to support the defense. After obtaining a copy of the complaint, they can organize evidence to challenge the accusations associated with certain infractions.
When a student tries to defend themselves against a Title IX allegation, delays can be costly. The longer they wait the harder it can be to find evidence and dependable witnesses. During this investigation, non-contact orders can provide people with an impression of guilt.
By working with a qualified student defense attorney, the accused student gets help in collecting and preserving evidence. Also, they learn how to best present this evidence in a persuasive way to make sure their side of the story is heard.
