All investigations and disciplinary proceedings concerning alleged sexual misconduct or sex discrimination will be conducted in a prompt, fair, and impartial manner by individuals who have received appropriate training on domestic violence, sexual assault and related issues. Procedures for investigation and adjudication are included in the Sexual Misconduct Policy.
Briefly, the Title IX Coordinator will select an appropriately trained person or persons to conduct an investigation. The parties will be advised of the nature of the charges, their rights, and the procedures to be followed at any hearing. The parties will have equal rights throughout the resolution process, and will have an equal opportunity to inspect evidence present relevant witnesses and other evidence if a hearing is necessary.
Parties may be assisted by an advisor of their choosing throughout the process, who may be but is not required to be an attorney. If a party does not have an advisor, the university will appoint one upon request at no charge.
Hearings will be conducted by appropriately-trained adjudicators. The standard of proof for adjudicating any sexual misconduct charge is a preponderance of the evidence standard. In other words, the evidence must show that it is more likely than not that the alleged sexual misconduct occurred. Unless and until that standard is met, respondents are presumed not responsible for alleged misconduct.
Both the complainant and the respondent will be informed simultaneously and in writing of the outcome of any disciplinary proceeding and the procedures to appeal.