How will I be notified if I have been accused of sexual misconduct?
You will be sent a Notice of Investigation and Allegations with information regarding your incident by the Title IX Coordinator, Title IX Coordinator for Employees, or Deputy Title IX Coordinator.
What information will I have access to if I am accused of sexual misconduct?
You will be notified of the date of the incident, what the allegations are, the specific charges, a redacted version of the incident, and the name of the Complainant. You will also be able to review all evidence that is collected before the hearing occurs.
What resources are available to me if I have been accused of sexual misconduct?
Counseling Services is a free resource on campus for students. Their office is located in the Puryear House. You can contact them directly at counseling@montevallo.edu and by phone number is 205-665-6245.
Will my parents be notified about my alleged sexual misconduct incident?
The university does not contact the parents of students involved in sexual misconduct incidents. However, the university will be able to share the details of your case with your permission and if you complete a FERPA release for your parent or guardian. We encourage students to tell their parents or guardians about these types of incidents.
What if other students start to harass or treat me differently because I have been accused of alleged sexual misconduct?
Retaliation is strictly prohibited and we take allegations of retaliation against anyone seriously. Please document and share any instances of retaliation with the Title IX investigators so the appropriate measures can take place.
What do I need to do to prepare for a Title IX investigation?
If you plan on bringing your own advisor, please complete the FERPA form online. Bring any evidence that will be beneficial for the investigators to see. This includes text messages, pictures, videos, social media messages, and any other information that you deem important. Bring a list of witnesses if you have any.
Who is involved in a Title IX investigation?
There will likely be two Title IX investigators gathering information about the incident. The Complainant, Respondent, and necessary witnesses will also participate in the investigation.
What does a meeting with the Title IX Coordinators look like?
At least one of the Title IX Coordinators will have an intake meeting with the complainant. In this meeting, the complainant will learn about their rights, options, and resources available to them. A No Contact Order may be put in place if both the Complainant and Respondent are members of the UM community. The meetings will be private and the purpose will be to collect evidence and information about the incident. Evidence and information that will be collected include, but not limited to text messages, social media posts, personal statements, and police reports (if any). Respondents and complainants are encouraged not to delete any messages or posts after the incident occurs. All meetings with Title IX personnel concerning the event will be recorded for the accuracy of information and documentation.
What happens if I withdraw or resign from the university during a Title IX investigation?
If you withdraw or resign from the University, the investigation will be suspended. The University is no longer able to compel a non-student or non-employee to disciplinary action. Undergraduate Admissions and the Registrar will be notified so you (the student) cannot be readmitted. You (the employee) will not be eligible for rehire.
How long does a Title IX investigation take?
A Title IX investigation takes time. Many schedules have to be weaved together. It is the responsibility of the Title IX investigators to ensure a prompt, thorough, and fair process. However, the investigators try to move through the process at a reasonable pace.
Do I have the right to appeal the decision of a Title IX investigation?
Yes. If you disagree with the outcome of the determination made by the Title IX Hearing Panel, you will have five (5) days to appeal the decision to the appropriate Appellate Officer.