If you are named a respondent in a Title IX sexual harassment complaint, you have a right to an advisor and/or support person of your choice, which may be but does not have to be an attorney. The Advisor may be a friend, mentor, family member, attorney, or any other individual a party chooses to advise, support, and/or consult with them throughout the resolution process.
Under the Procedure, advisors are required for the purpose of cross-examination at a hearing. If a party does not choose an advisor, the university will assign an advisor at no cost to the party. The parties may be accompanied by their Advisors in all meetings and interviews at which the party is entitled to be present, including intake and interviews. Advisors may help the parties prepare for each meeting and are expected to advise ethically, with integrity, and in good faith. During the investigation, an Advisor may provide personal support to the party; they may help the party in preparing for meetings and interviews; they may be present with the party during the meetings and interviews; and they may assist the party in reviewing the evidence prior to the close of the investigation.
Contact the Title IX Coordinator to learn more.