Information for Respondents
If you have been accused of sexual misconduct or discrimination, there is helpful information available for you.
Please remember, Respondents are presumed not responsible until a determination regarding responsibility is made at the
conclusion of the complaint resolution process, including any appeal.
Amnesty
The University’s Amnesty Policy means that you will NOT be disciplined for Liberty Way violations that took place in circumstances where you experienced, witnessed, or committed sexual misconduct.
Supportive Measures & Your Rights
One of the main purposes of the Office of Equity & Compliance (OEC) is to provide support and resources to students, staff, and faculty. Supportive measures are designed to restore and preserve access to your education and employment and are available to both complainants and respondents. Please see the list of resources linked below to learn more about the supportive measures available to you. To learn more about the OEC’s complaint resolution process, please see the flow chart linked below.
Confidential Support
Liberty recognizes that you may wish to keep your concerns confidential. Confidential communications are those communications which cannot be disclosed to another person, without your consent, except under very limited circumstances such as allegations involving the physical or sexual abuse of a child (under the age of 18) or vulnerable adult or an imminent threat to the life of any person. If you desire the details of your experience to be kept confidential, you should speak with a medical professional, professional counselor, minister or other pastoral counselor, or confidential advocate.
OEC Advisors
The advisor’s purpose is to support an individual during the OEC complaint resolution processes. An advisor is permitted to accompany the individual to initial intake meetings, interviews, and live hearings.
For more information on OEC advisor roles and responsibilities, click here.
Resources for Respondents
Common Emotions and Reactions that Respondents may Experience:
- Feeling surprised or disbelief
- Feeling angry/aggressive
- Anxious about the process
- Shame of what others may think
- Fear of impact on daily life and educational future
- Isolation
- Confusion about why they are being accused
- Feeling overwhelmed/panic