Many universities have a dedicated department staffed with employees to handle Title IX sexual misconduct claims, such as college rape, dating violence on campus, and sexual assault incidents. But that often is not enough.

Students’ Title IX sexual assault claims often go unanswered, are poorly handled, or are not investigated in a timely manner. Survivors’ voices are drowned out by the institutions’ desire to preserve their reputations, by quieting the allegations and sweeping them under the rug. Suppressed allegations of Title IX violations have encouraged a “rape culture” on many campuses. This institutional betrayal leaves many survivors lost and let down, and leaves others less inclined to report sexual assault claims.

If you or someone you love is a survivor of sexual misconduct or sexual violence at a college, university, or other education institution, it’s important to know your rights and have someone fighting for you to hold those responsible accountable. Hiring a Title IX lawyer may be an option for you. If you feel you have not been heard by your college or university, speak with an attorney experienced in Title IX proceedings.