Title IX Process

CWRU's Office of Equity Title IX Process

↑ This is the official CWRU website detailing the Title IX process, but please see below for a simplified version with key points

First Off, Know That Retaliation Is PROHIBITED

It is illegal to:

  • Threaten
  • Intimidate
  • Harass
  • Punish
  • Interfere

Because someone reported or participated in a case. So, for example, if the perpetrator retaliates/threatens you for reporting, CWRU treats it as a policy violation.

"CWRU prohibits retaliation against any person for: (1) reporting, opposing, or complaining of discrimination, harassment or sexual violence; (2) supporting a person who complains about such conduct; (3) assisting, providing information or participating in the investigation of an incident of discrimination, harassment or sexual violence; or (4) enforcing university policies with respect to discrimination, harassment or sexual violence." - CWRU Discrimination, Harassment, Intimidation and Retaliation

Retaliation should be reported to the Office of Equity IMMEDIATELY

STEP 1 | Report

Office of Equity Reporting - cglink.me/2cS/s71247

The Title IX office will

  • Reach out to you
  • Offer supportive measures*
  • Explain your rights
  • Explain investigation options

Reporting to the Office of Equity does not mean you have to take further action. By reporting/sharing your experience, you can access support, resources, and information about your options without filing a formal complaint*, participating in an investigation/hearing, naming the other party, contacting the police, or informing whoever is at home. You decide what (if anything) you want to do next.

Supportive Measures*

  • Deadline extensions/Academic Accommodations
  • Counseling referrals
  • Safety escorts
  • Work schedule changes
  • No Contact Directives (require that the respondent is reached out to/informed by the Office of Equity)
  • Changing housing
  • Changing class schedules

IMPORTANT EXCEPTION

The Office of Equity will not force an investigation if you are only seeking support. However, the Title IX Coordinator may initiate an investigation if there is an imminent threat to you or campus safety, based on factors such as previous conduct or the severity of the allegations, as required by federal and university policy.

If you want to talk to someone about a serious allegation, explore your options, and get support without any risk of triggering an investigation, consider talking with a Confidential Advocate. See Resources for more information.

STEP 2 | Choose Option A or B

Option A: Support & Resources → You choose not to file a formal complaint* or pursue an investigation (Please see above for IMPORTANT EXCEPTION)

Option B: File a Formal Complaint* → Starts an investigation

Formal Complaint*

Written document asking the University to investigate.

Once completed:

  • Respondent is notified
  • Both parties receive a written notice of the allegations
  • The investigation begins

STEP 3 | Investigation

1. An investigator from the Office of Equity is assigned

2. Both sides can:

  • Give evidence
  • Name witnesses
  • Have an advisor

3. You receive a draft report before it is finalized

STEP 4 | Hearing (If Required)

If the case falls under Process A* or Process B*:

  • A hearing panel is selected
  • Advisors may ask questions
  • Both sides are heard
  • A decision is made
  • Both parties are notified at the same time
  • Option to submit an appeal

Process A*

Applies when the reported conduct meets the federal Title IX definition of sexual harassment and certain jurisdiction requirements are met

Process B*

Applies when the reported conduct violates university policy but does not meet the federal Title IX definition or jurisdiction requirements

Possible Outcomes (Sanctions)

If a violation is found, possible sanctions include:

  • Probation
  • Suspension
  • Expulsion
  • Termination (for employees)
  • Required training or community service
  • Other remedies

Supportive measures can continue!

Appeals

Both parties may appeal based on:

  • Procedural errors
  • New evidence
  • Bias or conflict of interest

Sanctions may remain during an appeal.

What if You’re Not Sure/Wary About the Process?

You can...

  • Ask questions
  • Meet with Title IX staff
  • Talk to the Confidential Advocates in the Mather Center!
  • Bring an advisor
  • Decline to participate
  • Change your mind later

Reach Out to Us

#MeTooCWRU is a confidential resource :) #MeToo's Wellness Officer will privately reach out & support you!

#MeTooCWRU Email - metoocwru@gmail.com

#MeTooCWRU Case Email - metoocwru@case.edu

#MeTooCWRU Support Group Email - supportgroup@case.edu

Instagram DM - @cwru_metoo