Fighting For Justice On Behalf Of Victims Of Sexual Harassment
Have you been sexually assaulted or harassed as a student or employee at an educational institution? You may have a legal cause of action against your harassers under Title IX of the United States Code if the institution receives Federal financial assistance. To better understand whether you have a meritorious Title IX claim, consult an experienced Plano Title IX attorney for help. At the Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC, we have over 60 years of combined legal experience in personal injury litigation, including sexual assault claims within the scope of Title IX protection. Due to the painful and often traumatic nature of sexual assault and harassment cases, we are sensitive to the gravity of the circumstances regarding your experience. That is why we approach your legal representation with the utmost discretion and respect for what you have gone through.
What Protections Does Title IX Afford?
Under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 “no person in the United States shall on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” 20 U.S.C. §§ 1681 et seq. Accordingly, students and employees have the right to be free from gender discrimination, sexual harassment and assault, and unlawful retaliation. Thus discrimination against males, females and transgender individuals is prohibited under Title IX. Title IX is enforced through private civil actions for compensatory damages and equitable injunctive relief. A damage award under Title IX will compensate injured plaintiffs for noneconomic injuries such as pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Title IX awards also cover economic harms such as medical and counseling expenses, tuition, future earnings, and expenses, as well as attorney’s fees.
Additionally, Title IX prohibits adverse retaliatory treatment as a response to an individual’s decision to report unlawful discrimination or harassment, including:
- Imposing negative academic performance grades;
- Restricting a student’s participation on athletic teams, including reduced playing time or reassigning their team position; or
- Suspension or expulsion from an academic or extracurricular program from the institution.
Unlawful retaliation against employees in the workplace is also prohibited under Title IX, including:
- A material change in work duties
- Reduction in earnings
- Demotion
- Termination
To Whom Does Title IX Apply?
Title IX protection applies to people in universities, colleges, local school districts, and for-profit schools that receive federal financial assistance. Furthermore, federally funded educational programs provided by other institutions such as libraries, museums, and prisons are also subject to Title IX’s protections.
Take Control With The Help Of A Title IX Claims Lawyer In Plano
Victims of sexual assault and harassment and gender discrimination should not have to feel alone. At the Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC, you can rely on us to advocate for your rights under Title IX and bring those responsible for your injuries to justice.