What Happens if I’m Accused of a Title IX Violation in Wisconsin?

Title IX investigations are not criminal cases, but they can carry consequences that can feel just as severe. Facing a Title IX violation in Wisconsin is a serious matter with a process that can derail your education, your career, and your reputation.  If you're accused, the most important step is to secure strong legal representation early in the process.

This article explains what happens after an accusation, how the investigation unfolds, and what penalties you might face. Our aim is to provide you with a straightforward understanding of the risks involved and the measures you can take to safeguard yourself.

The first step in the Title IX investigation process is receiving notice of the investigation. This is a document that informs you that someone has filed a complaint against you and summarizes the allegations.

Written Notice
You will receive a written notice from the Title IX office at your school including details of the accusation, the policies you are alleged to have violated, and information regarding the investigation process at your school. This notice must be provided in writing so there is no confusion about what you are facing or how the process works.

Evidence and Response
During the investigation you will be afforded an opportunity to respond to the allegations. This may include providing evidence and names of potential witnesses that supports your versionof events.  Everything you provide becomes part of the official record.

Tip: From the moment you receive notice, stop all casual conversations about the case as anything that you say could be used against you. This is when you should consider hiring an attorney who is well versed in defending a Title IX case.

Once the accusation is made, the school begins an official Title IX investigation. All educational institutions receiving federal funding must follow federal Title IX regulations, but each school applies them through its own internal policies.

The Investigator's Role
The school disctrict or university assigns a neutral investigator. Their role is to gather and present evidence, not advocate for either side. The investigator will interview the involved parties including both you and the complainant. They may also question witnesses and request documents. Emails, text messages, and old posts can all become evidence.

Your Participation
You are not required to participate in the investigation and it may not be in your best interest to do so. An experienced defense lawyer can help prepare you and provide advice on whether and how to participate.  If you do decide to particpate in the investigation, answering questions with an attorney on your side ensures the protection of your rights.

While a Title IX violation is a non-criminal matter is handled by the school outside of the court system, aTitle IX violation or accusation may lead to criminal charges. This is because many allegations that fall under Title IX could also be the basis for criminal charges in Wisconsin. Even if you have not been charged with a crime, hiring a lawyer to assist with your Title IX case will not only help protect you in the school's investigation but also set you up for a better defense if those accusations are brought in criminal court. 

You are entitled to a hearing on the allegations once the investigation is completed. 

How the Hearing Works
During the hearing, you and the complainant will have the opportunity to present evidence, call witnesses, cross examine witnesses and testify. This is not a criminal trial, but it has many of the same features. You are entitled to have an advisor with you at this hearing (this person can a lawyer of your choosing) to present your case and advocate for you.  Having an experienced attorney represent you can provide you with the best chance of being successful in your case.

Standard of Proof
The burden of proof to establish a violation in Title IX cases is the "preponderance of the evidence" standard. This means they will decide against you if they believe it is more likely than not that the Title IX violation occurred. The standard of proof here is much easier to meet compared to the "beyond a reasonable doubt" standard found in criminal cases. A Title IX attorney can help you understand these standards, guide you through this process and present the best defense for you.

If a determination is made that you have violated Title IX , the consequences can vary based on the violation and your role within the institution.  Sanctions can change the course of your life and affect you for years to come.

Academic and Disciplinary Penalties
Schools can impose penalties such as:

• Suspension or expulsion: A suspension removes you from school for a set period, while expulsion ends your academic career at that institution, sometimes with an option to reapply at a later date. Both appear on your record and can potentially prevent you from transferring or enrolling elsewhere.
• Restrictions and modifications:  Even if you remain at school, modifications can be made to your schedule and living arrangements to control the environment for both parties.
• Disciplinary notations on your transcript: These notations flag the Title IX finding to other schools or employers. They create long-term obstacles for academics and professional opportunities that are difficult to undo.
• Loss of scholarships or financial aid: The school may revoke financial support, leaving you without resources to continue your education. This forces you to cover tuition and expenses on your own.
• Removal from sports teams or student organizations: Losing access to athletics or organizations limits your network, community involvement, and leadership opportunities.

Long-Term Consequences
Penalties can disrupt your current studies and affect future school admission, job prospects, and professional licensing. Employers and admissions officers often view Title IX sanctions as serious warnings, regardless of whether you believe the decision was fair.

Your side of the story deserves to be heard. A Title IX lawyer will help you get back to your life and ensure your future is protected.

The moment you are accused of a Title IX violation, your response matters. Poor decisions can worsen your case. Here are the most important steps:

Hire an Attorney
Do not delay. The longer you wait, the more time the school has to build its case against you. A Title IX defense attorney in Wisconsin will explain your rights and help you build a defense.

Respect No-Contact Orders
Most schools issue no-contact orders between the complainant and the respondent. Violating this order, even by accident, can result in additional penalties.

Keep Quiet
Do not discuss your case with friends, classmates, or coworkers. Even family conversations should be limited. Only speak with your lawyer about case details.

Preserve Evidence
Save everything, including texts, emails, call logs, and social media posts. Do not delete anything. Your attorney will decide what evidence helps and what hurts.

Stay Off Social Media
Posting about your case online is one of the fastest ways to damage your defense. Assume that anything you post will end up in the investigator's file.

At Nelson Defense Group, we represent students, faculty, and staff across Wisconsin who face Title IX violation allegations. We understand both the disciplinary process and the criminal risks that may accompany it.

We provide strategic and supportive defense that helps protect you in any way we can. From the first notice of allegations all the way through hearings, we guide you at each stage. Our focus is on protecting your rights, your reputation, and your future.

Our team has experience in both criminal defense and Title IX cases. We have successfully defended clients in Wisconsin schools and secured "not responsible" findings. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin working on your defense.

Facing a Title IX violation in Wisconsin sets off a chain of events that can affect your education, finances, reputation, and even your freedom. You will receive a notice, undergo an investigation, possibly attend a hearing, and risk sanctions that can alter your life. Every decision you make along the way matters, and the right legal guidance can help you protect your rights at each stage. An accusation does not equal guilt, but preparation and the right attorney make all the difference.

Contact Nelson Defense Group today to discuss your situation and start building your defense. Our team is ready to protect your education, your reputation, and your future.