Formal Complaints of Prohibited Conduct as described in the USC Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation typically result in an investigation handled by the EEO-TIX office after a Notice of Investigation (NOI) is concurrently issued to the Respondent and the Reporting Party. The NOI signals the start of an investigation; the investigation process is described below.
As stated in the above image, the steps in the investigative process are:
Formal Complaint
- Filed by Reporting Party or signed by Title IX Coordinator
Notice of Allegations
- With sufficient detail and time for a party to prepare for an initial interview
Investigation
- Thorough search for relevant facts and evidence
- Conducted by a trained investigator who is free from conflicts of interest or bias
Evidence Review
- Of any evidence that is directly related to the allegations
Written Responses to Evidence
- 10-day review period
- Parties may submit written responses
Investigative Report
- Fairly summarizes relevant evidence
- Includes inculpatory and exculpatory evidence
Written Responses to Report
- 10-day review period
- Parties may submit written responses
Read more about the EEO-TIX resolution processes and the policy itself.