Scholarship and eligibility consequences for athletes.
For an athlete, the campus process is rarely the first consequence. A coach or athletic department decision arrives within days, before any finding, and it operates outside the conduct system with little or no procedure attached.
Why the interim removal is the case.
Eligibility is finite and seasons are fixed. A suspension from competition imposed as a supportive measure and lifted after a hearing eight weeks later has already cost a season that cannot be recovered. That makes the challenge to the interim measure the most valuable work available - and the strongest argument is that removal from competition does nothing to restore or preserve anyone’s equal access to education, which is what the regulation requires of a supportive measure.
Three separate decision-makers.
The Title IX office runs the grievance process. The athletic department decides participation. The financial aid office decides scholarship renewal, which for athletic aid is typically an annual award with its own appeal procedure. These are frequently conflated by families and never by the institution - each needs to be addressed on its own terms and within its own deadline.
Publicity, and the coach conversation.
Athlete matters attract attention, which increases the likelihood of police involvement and of the case reaching people with reporting obligations. Nothing said to a coach, a trainer, or an academic advisor is privileged, and many of them are mandatory reporters under institutional policy or the Clery Act. The conversation an athlete has with a coach in the first days is frequently the first document in the file.
Why you should call us.
If you are scrolling through search results trying to find someone to defend you, your search is over. You have found Spodek Law Group P.C. - and we are not your average defense firm. We know a thing or two about defending the accused in campus cases - and in the criminal courts that run alongside them. Over 50 years of combined experience, some of the toughest cases in the country, and we have come out on top. We have seen it all, and we empathise with you. We understand how frightening this is, and we have a legal team who can fight and win.
Unlike other attorneys who care about their reputation with the administrators and the prosecutors, our only goal is getting you the best outcome. We owe loyalty to only you. Our lawyers listen to you, your fears, and your goals. We care about your story, and that is where the work begins - by understanding and listening to you.
On billing, we are transparent about our fees, and there are no surprises. Choosing a lawyer is a big deal and cost is a real issue, so we are committed to being your champion irrespective of your ability to pay. Our firm has a simple belief: lawyers should only take on clients whom they can truly help. Many firms are mills that take every case through the door. We do not.
Working with us starts with a risk-free consultation, in person or over the phone. You can ask us anything, for as long as it takes, and we encourage you to ask the tough questions. We are available 24/7, we practise coast to coast, and every client has direct access to a partner. Call 212 300 5196 - an attorney answers.
