Conduct on a study-abroad programme.
Allegations arising overseas sit outside Title IX by the plain terms of the rule, and inside the institution’s own conduct code by the plain terms of most handbooks. Both halves of that matter.
The territorial limit.
The 2020 regulations apply to sexual harassment against a person in the United States. Conduct occurring on a study-abroad programme in another country falls outside that scope, and the rule requires dismissal of the Title IX complaint where the alleged conduct did not occur in an education programme or activity or did not occur in the United States. That dismissal is mandatory rather than discretionary, and it should be requested in writing with the provision cited.
What follows the dismissal.
Almost every institution maintains a student conduct code claiming jurisdiction over conduct on institutional programmes wherever they take place. The matter typically moves there, and the procedural protections thin considerably - no federally required live hearing, frequently no cross-examination, and in many systems a single administrator who investigates and decides. Winning the scope argument is still worth doing: it narrows the charge, it creates a documented procedural record, and where a school re-charges immediately under a thinner process, that sequence is itself objectionable.
The evidentiary reality.
Overseas incidents produce incomplete records. Local venue video is not obtainable, non-student witnesses are outside any institutional reach, host-country police records are inaccessible, and message and payment evidence may sit on foreign platforms. That incompleteness cuts against whoever bears the burden, which is the institution - and stating precisely which categories of evidence cannot be obtained is a stronger argument than any characterisation of the night itself.
Why you should call us.
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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.
