New Title IX Regulations Became
The Department of Education’s 2020 Title IX regulations – with an effective date of August 14, 2020 – made changes that impact how schools structure their Title IX processes. The attorneys at Sanghavi Law Office have significant, relevant experience to assist schools with their responsibilities under these regulations. Sanghavi Law Office has experience working with individuals at all levels within schools – K-12 students, post-secondary students, faculty members, and administrators – to address complaints of sexual misconduct. Our attorneys are experienced in all aspects of investigations, including conducting interviews, making findings of facts, and determining whether policy violations have occurred.
Some of the significant changes to the Title IX regulations include:
- Inclusion of definitions of sexual harassment
- Required separation of the investigator role, the decision-maker role, and the appeal decision-maker role
- Requirements regarding what information must be shared with parties and the opportunity for parties to respond to this information
- Requirement for live hearings for complaints at post-secondary institutions
- Option for informal resolution (except for allegations of sexual harassment by a teacher toward a student).
Sanghavi Law Office can assist with the critical steps schools take to implement policies and procedures in compliance with the new regulations:
- Policy and Procedures Review: Significant changes have been made regarding schools’ responsibilities under Title IX. Sanghavi Law Office can assist schools by reviewing and updating current policies and procedures to comply with the new Title IX regulations.
- Investigative and Hearing Assistance: Attorneys at Sanghavi Law Office can assist schools with various roles outlined under the new Title IX regulations by: 1) conducting investigations of formal complaints; 2) acting as decision-makers at Title IX hearings, including preparing written determination reports; 3) serving as party advisors; and 4) reviewing and evaluating appeals.
- Informal Resolutions: The new regulations allow schools to offer the option of informal resolutions of Title IX complaints. Sanghavi Law Office can assist with the informal resolution process by providing mediation.
- Trainings: Sanghavi Law Office can assist schools by providing trainings to Title IX coordinators, investigators, decision-makers, and individuals responsible for making appeal determinations.