The meeting where most respondents lose the case.
The intake meeting is the first face-to-face stage of a Title IX process, and it is genuinely informational in part - the coordinator does explain the process and does answer questions. It is also the earliest opportunity for the institution to obtain an account from a respondent who has not read the policy, has not seen the evidence, and has not spoken to a lawyer.
Why respondents damage their cases here.
Not through dishonesty. Through three specific instincts. The first is completeness: providing a full narrative in the belief that the truth, thoroughly told, resolves things. The second is characterisation: describing the complainant’s state of mind, level of intoxication, or motivation, none of which the respondent can establish and all of which will be quoted. The third is apology: expressing regret that anyone was hurt, which reads in a determination letter, and in a criminal file, as an admission of the conduct alleged.
The distinction that matters.
Attending and answering are separate decisions. Non-attendance signals disengagement and forfeits the opportunity to ask the questions that shape the defense. Answering substantive questions before counsel has read the policy and the file creates a fixed account that cannot be unmade. The workable posture is to attend, state clearly and courteously that you intend to participate through an advisor and in writing, ask your questions, and decline to be interviewed that day.
The six questions worth asking.
Which specific policy provision is charged - this defines the defense and is frequently narrower than the allegation. Which standard of proof the institution uses, since preponderance and clear and convincing call for different approaches. Every deadline in the policy and which are extendable. What interim measures are being imposed, on what basis, and how to challenge them. Whether any police report exists, because that changes the entire posture. And the policy version in force on the date of the alleged conduct, which is the document the institution is bound by.
Who the coordinator is.
Frequently a conscientious professional trying to run a fair process. Also an employee of the institution that will decide the case, under no confidentiality obligation to you, and often a mandatory reporter under the Clery Act. There is no informal register in that room. Statements framed as background become notes, and notes are producible - including to a prosecutor.
Afterwards.
Send a short email confirming what was discussed, what was promised, and what you requested. It takes ten minutes and it converts an oral exchange into a document. Where the institution later departs from something it committed to at intake, that email is the evidence - and procedural irregularity is the appeal ground that reverses most often.
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.
