It depends on the nature of the misconduct. Informal resolution is appropriate only where all parties to a sexual misconduct matter request it. Even when a request is made, the university may determine that other alleged violations are sufficiently serious that informal resolution would be inappropriate. In such cases, the matter will be resolved through formal adjudication.
If the complainant and respondent both request informal resolution under circumstances in which it would be appropriate, the university will make reasonable efforts to facilitate it.
Informal resolution is strictly voluntary. No one, whether complainant or accused, will be compelled to participate in any mediation or other informal resolution. Further, informal resolution efforts always will be supervised by a properly-trained person with no conflict of interest—that is, not by an investigator or potential formal adjudicator.