Introduction: The COVID-19 coronavirus has had a significant impact on daily activities. It has even affected how the legal and school disciplinary systems work. At many US colleges, coronavirus changed Title IX hearings and investigations were delayed, and many are now being conducted remotely using video conferencing technologies such as Zoom or Skype.
Due to campus closures, Title IX officers are now working remotely due to safety concerns. The shift to remote work and education has resulted in changes and complications with Title IX investigations.
How is the Coronavirus affecting Title IX investigations?
Due to the coronavirus, many investigations have been delayed. However, universities and colleges are still obligated to conduct timely investigations and hearings. Thus, colleges may use online platforms such as Skype and Zoom to continue the process and conduct interviews and hearings.
What is the impact of video conferencing on Investigations?
The usage of video conferencing can result in nonverbal cues being lost and not communicated. In many cases, especially “he-said, she-said” cases, this is a very important issue, as those cues can significantly impact credibility.
Can individuals continue to file Title IX Complaints?
Even though schools have shifted to online classes and remote work, people can and should file Title IX complaints. As long as the complaint is against a current student, staff, or faculty member, a Title IX complaint and investigation can be pursued.
What Can I Do If My School Forces Me To Proceed With a Video Conferencing Hearing.
If a university or college refuses to delay a hearing so that it can be conducted in person rather than through video conferencing, you may be obligated to do the video hearing. However, you will still have the right to file an appeal or complaint if you believe the outcome was unfair.
Conclusion
The coronavirus changed Title IX investigations and how they are conducted. All parties involved are still entitled to timely investigations and hearings, and schools are responding in novel ways, such as with video conferencing platforms. These changes can have both positive and negative effects.
