Being accused of a Title IX violation can have devastating consequences for a student’s academic and professional future. At Allen Harris, we provide aggressive, informed representation to students across Florida who are facing these life-altering allegations. Whether the accusation involves sexual misconduct, dating violence, stalking, or other prohibited behaviors under Title IX, our experienced attorneys are here to ensure that your rights are protected and your side of the story is heard. Contact a Florida student defense lawyer from Allen Harris today.
Our Student Misconduct Defense Services
At Allen Harris, we focus exclusively on defending students in Title IX and related disciplinary matters. We are deeply familiar with how universities in Florida implement federal Title IX regulations, as well as how they interpret key concepts like affirmative consent, retaliation, and due process. We handle a wide range of issues on behalf of students, including those involving:
- Free Speech and Academic Freedom
- Sexual Misconduct
- Title IX Violations
- Student Misconduct
- Discrimination Claims
- College Housing Policy Violations
Students We Serve
We proudly represent students enrolled in many of Florida’s top universities, including:
- University of Florida (UF)
- Florida State University (FSU)
- University of Miami (UM)
- University of South Florida (USF)
- Florida International University (FIU)
- Florida Atlantic University (FAU)
- University of Central Florida (UCF)
- Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU)
- Florida A&M University (FAMU)
- Nova Southeastern University
- Rollins College
- Eckerd College
- Stetson University
- Flagler College
Whether you attend a public research university, a private liberal arts college, or a specialized technical school, we understand how different institutions handle Title IX complaints and disciplinary procedures, and we are prepared to step in quickly to provide you with immediate representation.
What to Know About Title IX Allegations & Your Rights in Florida
Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in any educational institution receiving federal funding. While it was originally designed to ensure equal access to education, its scope now includes investigations and disciplinary actions related to sexual harassment, sexual assault, and gender-based misconduct. If you’re a student accused of a Title IX violation, here are some of the things that you should know:
- You Have the Right to an Advisor: Under federal regulations, you are entitled to have an advisor (including an attorney) accompany you throughout the Title IX process. Your advisor may also conduct cross-examinations during any live hearing.
- You Must Receive Notice and Access to Evidence: Under federal regulations governing Title IX sexual misconduct hearings on campus, the school is required to provide a written notice of allegations and grant you access to relevant evidence.
- Due Process Is Not Guaranteed Uniformly: While federal regulations provide some protections, each Florida school has its own procedures. Some institutions allow for more robust defense opportunities than others. Without a skilled attorney, it’s easy to miss critical deadlines or overlook procedural errors that could make or break your case.
- Parallel Criminal Charges May Be Filed: If the alleged misconduct also constitutes a crime under Florida law, you could face parallel criminal investigations. Anything you say in the Title IX process could be used against you in court, which is why you need a lawyer who understands both systems.
- Your Case May Not End After the Initial Hearing: Many students are not aware that they may have the right to appeal an bad outcome. Appeals are often based on procedural errors, newly discovered evidence, or bias, and the window to file is usually very short, often just a few days.
Contact a Student Defense Lawyer in Florida Today
If you or your child is facing a Title IX investigation in Florida, time is critical. The earlier we can get involved, the more effectively we can protect your rights and future. At Allen Harris, we know the pressure, confusion, and fear that can come with these allegations, and we’re here to help you through every step. Contact a seasoned Florida student defense lawyer from our legal team today for a confidential consultation.