What You Should Know

Respondent. The term Respondent refers to someone who is accused of violating the UF Title IX Policy. The Title IX Compliance Office will treat all parties with respect and ensure the investigation is executed as thoroughly, fairly, and as efficiently as possible.

If a Complainant seeks disciplinary action against you or is pursuing a formal complaint reporting discrimination, harassment, or related conduct, the Title IX Coordinator or their designee will meet with you to outline the next steps and discuss resources.

Safety. If you feel you are in immediate danger of harm by another person or yourself, call 911. It is important that physical and emotional needs are met first.

Resolution. The Title IX Coordinator or their designee will meet with the complainant to discuss the complaint, next steps, resources, and options to file an informal or formal complaint. Receiving a letter of notice does not mean the Respondent has been found in violation of the policy. It means an investigation has been started to determine if there was a violation of policy.

The investigation process can be stressful and complicated. It is important for complainants to understand the process and the rights afforded to them. Please contact the Title IX Compliance Office to address any questions or concerns.

Prohibition against Retaliatory Conduct. Retaliation is strictly prohibited against any parties involved in the grievance process.  Allegations of retaliation or intimidation of anyone involved in any sexual-based misconduct or relationship violence policy violation(s) processes are taken very seriously by the University and should be reported to the Title IX Compliance Office. It is entirely possible that retaliation can result in more severe discipline than the underlying alleged misconduct.

Advisors. All parties involved in any investigation are allowed to be accompanied to any meeting or hearing as part of these processes by an advisor of their choice to provide support, as long as the advisor is not a witness, a staff member in the Title IX Compliance Office , or the Confidential Advocate.