Grand Rapids Title IX Lawyers

Delivering Sound Legal Guidance to Students of 
GVSU, MSU, and Universities Throughout MI

Being found responsible for a Title IX violation can have substantial ramifications on your educational and professional career. The allegations alone can adversely impact your relationships with others. And if the accusations are proved true, you could face various sanctions, including expulsion from school. In a Title IX matter, you do have the right to challenge the claims. However, because the process and laws are complex, it's best to have a lawyer on your side who understands school policies and your rights.

At Tanis Schultz, we are fierce advocates for those accused of Title IX violations. Our defense lawyers provide sound legal representation for students at Grand Valley State University (GVSU), Michigan State University (MSU), and other universities throughout Michigan. We recognize that schools are under pressure to demonstrate that they take these matters seriously, which means the odds are often not in the accused's favor. By diligently preparing for cases and taking the time to get to know our clients, we can develop compelling defenses to challenge accusations of misconduct.

Our Title IX attorneys are prepared to go to work for you and seek a just result in your case. Call us at (616) 227-3737 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

What Is Title IX?

Title IX is a civil rights provision of the Education Amendments of 1972. It provides that any educational institution or program that receives federal funding is prohibited from engaging in sex-based discrimination. Essentially, the law states that such institutions and the people who attend or work for them cannot exclude anyone from participating in any activity or offering based on sex. The law applies to private and public K-12 schools as well as colleges and universities.

Sexual violence and sexual harassment are considered forms of sex-based discrimination. Under Title IX, they are defined as "unwelcome sexual conduct" "so severe, pervasive and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the school's education program or activity." Schools, including GVSU and MSU, must respond to claims of such conduct on their campuses.

What Is the Title IX Process?

The U.S. Department of Educations' Office for Civil Rights (ORC) is responsible for ensuring that schools receiving federal financial assistance comply with Title IX rules and regulations. Any institution found in noncompliance may face sanctions, including possible loss of federal funds. As such, colleges and universities take sex-based discrimination claims seriously and act aggressively to remedy the situation and penalize the offender.

The Title IX process begins with an investigation. If the claim is substantiated, proceedings will be held to hear both sides of the story. Depending on the institution, the case will be determined based on a preponderance of evidence or by clear and convincing evidence. Both standards are lower than the "guilt beyond a reasonable doubt" applied in criminal cases. Thus, a student accused of a Title IX violation must build a solid defense to fight back against the allegations.

At Tanis Schultz, we can provide guidance throughout the Title IX process and determine how to defend against the allegations. Additionally, our team will ensure that you understand your rights and are prepared to answer questions about the alleged incident. When you retain our services, you won't have to go through this difficult time alone. We will be by your side every step of the way.

How Are Title IX Violations Penalized?

If the school finds that the accused is responsible for the Title IX violation, they could be:

• Suspended or expelled
• Ineligible for scholarships
• Prohibited from participating in athletics
• Ineligible for acceptance at other colleges or universities
• Subject to a criminal investigation
• Designated a sex offender

Contact Tanis Schultz Today

When your future is a stake, it's vital to have legal representation from a team ready to do what's needed for your case. Our Title IX defense lawyers in Grand Rapids proudly serve students of GVSU, MSU, and students throughout Michigan. We will expend the time, effort, and resources necessary to fight back against the accusation.

Speak with us by calling (616) 227-3737 or submitting an online contact form.