What Should I Know?
Due to a change in federal regulations on Title IX, USC has issued a new, university-wide policy. Instead of having separate policies to serve USC students, faculty and staff, we have combined them to define and describe how the University will respond to reports of Prohibited Conduct, including the provision of supportive measures, and the resolution process of formal complaints.
Confidential Resources
You have a wealth of confidential resources to get information, support, and guidance:
Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Programs and Services
Center for Work and Family Life
Alternative Resolution Options
Students, faculty and staff can pursue alternate resolution options by the agreement of both parties and the University.
Supportive Measures
Offered to both parties, as reasonably available and appropriate, free of charge – no need to file a formal complaint.
New Process Elements
Formal Resolution: Process includes written notice and a meaningful opportunity to be heard, right to an advisor of choice, and a determination by the preponderance of the evidence by a neutral and impartial adjudicator.
Key Changes to Process
Sexual misconduct and Title IX cases for all students, staff and faculty now require a live hearing, which can be virtual if it can be viewed simultaneously and in real time. At the hearing, a party’s advisor may ask relevant questions of the other party and any witnesses, and a neutral, unbiased decision-maker will determine if each question is relevant or not. If a party dos not have an advisor at the hearing, the University will provide one free of charge.
Clear Reporting Options
Any person may make a report to the Equity, Equal Opportunity, and Title IX Office to request supportive measures, file a formal complaint, explore procedural options, or ask questions about University policy.