It is not uncommon for college students to pursue sexual relationships with others. However, despite best efforts to ensure consent, there can sometimes be mixed signals or miscommunication. There are also unfortunately instances where no form of consent is obtained. In some cases, students may be accused of committing sexual assault or other forms of sexual misconduct. These students will need to understand the potential consequences they may face, including criminal charges and administrative penalties at a university. To ensure that their rights are protected, those who have been accused of misconduct should work with an attorney who is experienced in representing college students.
Administrative Penalties for Sexual Misconduct
A student who is accused of committing sexual assault or other forms of sexual misconduct may face penalties from their school, even if they are never charged with or convicted of a crime. Once a complaint of sexual misconduct is made to a school’s Title IX office, the school will perform an investigation to gain information about the facts of the case. In some cases, the school holds a hearing to determine whether misconduct occurred, and issue penalties, which may include suspension, expulsion, or restrictions on the types of activities a person can participate in or their contact or communication with the alleged victim.
In a college setting, “sexual misconduct” includes more than just sexual assault. These cases can involve sexual harassment such as unwelcome sexual advances or offensive comments, sexual exploitation such as taking or distributing photos or videos of private body parts or sexual activity without a person’s consent, stalking, or dating violence committed against a romantic partner.
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