The order of the hearing will normally be as follows:
Introduction and reading of the alleged violations
Opening statement by complainant
Opening statement by respondent
Presentation of witnesses by complainant
Presentation of witnesses by respondent
Evidence not previously made available by the complainant
Evidence not previously made available by the respondent
Questions from the hearing board
Closing statement by the respondent
Closing statement by the complainant
Closed deliberation by the hearing board
Rendering of decision by the hearing board
As with all University judicial system cases, a hearing may proceed even if, one or both parties fail to attend the hearing. Further, once a sexual misconduct complaint has been brought forward, the University shall proceed in the adjudication of the case in accordance with Title IX. In such cases, the Title IX coordinator will always be notified at the beginning of the process.
Either party may request to present their case outside the physical presence or line of sight of the other party. Every effort will be made to accommodate such requests. Either party wishing to make a request for special accommodations must submit in writing their request at least 48 business hours prior to the hearing to the Title IX Coordinator and Dean of Students (or designee). Some examples of special accommodations are the use of telephone hearings and/or skype. Further, either party may petition to present their case by proxy at least 48 business hours prior to the hearing. The University, however, cautions parties that using a proxy may lead to a party not being able to fully respond to questions presented by the hearing panel or other issues brought up in the hearing. A party's proxy may not be legal counsel or their Faculty/Staff Advocate.