Brown University Title IX Defense Lawyers

Brown University Title IX Defense: Protecting Your Rights

What is Title IX?

Title IX is a federal law; that prohibits discrimination based on sex, in education programs or activities that receive federal funding. It states: “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”Basically, Title IX aims to ensure equal opportunities for all students – regardless of gender. It covers areas like admissions, athletics, employment, and – crucially for our discussion – sexual harassment and sexual violence cases on college campuses.

The Title IX Process at Brown

If you’re a Brown student accused of sexual misconduct, you’ll likely go through the university’s Title IX process. This can be confusing and stressful – but our Brown University Title IX defense lawyers are here to protect your rights.The process typically starts with an investigation by Brown’s Title IX Office. They’ll interview the complainant, respondent (you), and any witnesses or gather other evidence. You have the right to an advisor during interviews and meetings.After the investigation, there will be a hearing before a panel of trained university staff and students. Both sides can present evidence and witnesses. The panel then determines, using a “preponderance of evidence” standard, whether the accused student violated Brown’s sexual misconduct policy.If found responsible, sanctions can include probation, suspension, expulsion, or other disciplinary measures. You have the right to appeal based on procedural errors or new evidence.It’s a high-stakes process that can permanently impact your education, career prospects, and life. Having a skilled Title IX attorney advisor is crucial from the very start.

Why You Need a Title IX Lawyer

While Brown allows student advisors, they often lack legal training and experience. A dedicated Title IX defense attorney can provide invaluable support:

• Ensuring your due process rights are protected
• Identifying key evidence or flaws in the case against you
• Preparing an effective defense strategy
• Skillfully cross-examining witnesses at the hearing
• Filing persuasive appeals if needed

Our Title IX lawyers in Rhode Island have extensive experience navigating these complex cases. We understand the nuances of Title IX law and Brown’s policies. And we’re committed to vigorously defending the rights and futures of accused students.

Common Title IX Violations at Brown

Brown’s Title IX policy prohibits a range of sexual misconduct, including:

• Sexual harassment
• Sexual assault
• Dating/domestic violence
• Stalking
• Sexual exploitation

Even if the alleged behavior seems ambiguous or took place off-campus, it can still trigger a Title IX case. Accusations often stem from misunderstandings between romantic partners or at parties involving alcohol.No matter the circumstances, an allegation alone can derail your college experience and cast a long shadow. Don’t try to navigate the Title IX process alone.

DEFENSE TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Todd Spodek

Lead Attorney & Founder

Featured on Netflix's "Inventing Anna," Todd Spodek brings decades of high-stakes criminal defense experience. His aggressive approach has secured dismissals and acquittals in cases others deemed unwinnable.

NY Bar Admitted Multi-State Licensed Federal Courts

Meet the Full Team

Legal Scenario: What Would You Do?

Scenario

You are a junior at Brown University who just received an email from the Office of Student Conduct informing you that a Title IX complaint has been filed against you by a fellow student, alleging sexual misconduct at an off-campus party. The notice states you have 10 business days to respond and that interim restrictions, including a no-contact order and temporary suspension from your residence hall, have already been put in place.

What steps should I take immediately to protect my rights and my academic future at Brown during this Title IX investigation?

Attorney's Answer

You should retain an experienced Title IX defense attorney before submitting any written response or attending any meetings with Brown's Title IX office, as anything you say can be used against you in both the university proceeding and any potential criminal investigation. Under Brown's Title IX grievance process, which must comply with the 2022 amended federal regulations, you have the right to review all evidence gathered, receive written notice of the allegations with sufficient detail, and have an advisor of your choice present during any interview or hearing. Your attorney can challenge the interim restrictions if they are disproportionate, ensure the investigation meets the preponderance-of-evidence standard Brown applies, and protect you from procedural errors that could unfairly impact the outcome. Time is critical because early intervention, including preserving text messages, social media evidence, and identifying witnesses, can be the difference between expulsion and exoneration.

This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.

Potential Defenses in Title IX Cases

Every case is unique, but some common defenses employed by Title IX attorneys include:

• Consent
• Lack of evidence
• Procedural errors by the university
• Motivations or bias of the complainant