Understanding Your Rights

As a survivor of sexual assault, you have the right:

  • To have any allegation of sexual assault treated seriously and with respect.
  • To have information on medical, counseling, mental health, or other student services.
  • To have any allegation of sexual assault investigated adjudicated by the appropriate authorities and prompt assistance of campus personnel.
  • To be free from any suggestion that the victim is responsible for the crime.
  • To be free from any suggestion that the victim should refrain from reporting to avoid publicity.
  • To have an advocate present.
  • To be notified of the outcome of the disciplinary proceeding against the accused.
  • To prompt cooperation of campus personnel in collecting evidence.
  • To be informed of, and assisted in, exercising any rights to be confidentially, or anonymously, tested for sexually transmitted infection or immunodeficiency virus.
  • To require campus personnel to take reasonable and necessary action to prevent further unwanted contact of victims with their alleged assailants.

As a student accused of sexual misconduct you are entitled:


FAQs

What if I was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the sexual assault?

Use of alcohol or drugs impacts an individual’s ability to consent to a sexual act and does not mean the victim is at fault for the sexual assault either.

Can I make a confidential report to campus officials?

While the university will make every effort to maintain confidentiality, the university cannot guarantee confidentiality in all cases. The university is obligated to provide a safe environment for all students and requires for confidentiality will be evaluated against factors such as the seriousness of the allegations, whether there have been other complaints about the same individual and the alleged aggressor’s right to receive information about the allegation in a student misconduct proceeding.

What is the process for investigation of a complaint of sexual assault?

If you file a report with the Title IX Coordinator, you will be contacted by a representative of the office to schedule a meeting to collect the facts related to the incident. The purpose of the initial meeting will also be to assure that you have access to all the necessary resources and that there will be no impact on your opportunity to participate in your educational program. You should be prepared to address any changes to your academic program that may be appropriate based on the circumstances.

Once you have filed a complaint you will be updated regularly regarding the status of the investigation and any outcomes of the investigation. You should expect to receive an equal opportunity for participation in the investigation and any subsequent proceeding as the individual who is the subject of the complaint.

What should I do if I witnessed a crime of sexual assault?

If you are a witness to a crime of sexual violence you should report the incident to campus or local police. You may also speak with the Title IX Coordinator who can assist you with further reporting as appropriate.