Striking The Balance: The Role Of Trained Investigators and Experienced Lawyers in University Sexual Misconduct Cases

Universities often recognise the significance of conducting investigations that adhere to the highest standards of professionalism, impartiality and sensitivity.

Trained investigators, frequently former police detectives with expertise in handling Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) cases, are uniquely qualified to ensure the integrity of these investigations.

Those who are appropriately trained possess the skills needed to gather and assess evidence, interview witnesses and evaluate the credibility of all parties involved. Their expertise ensures that investigations are transparent, leaving little room for ambiguity. Thoroughness is vital in achieving just outcomes.

Trained investigators bring to the table a wealth of knowledge and experience. Their training includes trauma-informed interviewing techniques, which are essential in creating supportive environments for complainants and those facing allegations themselves. This training goes beyond traditional investigative skills , emphasising the need for compassion when dealing with delicate matters.

A key benefit of trained investigators lies in their independence from the university. They are dedicated through their vocation to the pursuit of truth and justice. Free from bias. Their independence, regardless as to who is funding them, guarantees a fair and impartial process for both the accuser and the accused.

Appointing a lawyer early in cases of student misconduct is not about creating a power imbalance; it is about establishing a fair and equitable process. Here’s why:

1. Protecting the Rights of the Accused: Every student, irrespective of the allegations they face, deserves a fair and unbiased investigation. Legal representation ensures that the accused student’s rights are upheld throughout the process.

2. Navigating Complex University Policies: Universities often have intricate policies and procedures addressing allegations of sexual misconduct. The specialised lawyers at Lupton Fawcett are well-versed in these policies, guiding students through the process with expertise and precision.

3. Supporting the Accuser: Legal representation does not diminish the rights or experiences of the complainant. Instead, it can lead to a more thorough and transparent investigation, providing support and clarity to the accuser as well.

4. Safeguarding the University’s Interests: Universities themselves benefit when accused students have legal advice and representation. It guarantees due process, mitigates legal challenges, and helps maintain their reputation as institutions committed to justice.

Ultimately, if a student is found against following an allegation of misconduct, expulsion is highly likely. They may struggle to access funding to re-enrol at a different university and may be required to declare the finding against them at any stage in their future professional career.

Appointing a lawyer early can also minimise the potential long-term consequences of a misconduct allegation. This helps a student to make informed decisions which may impact their academic and professional future positively. It also encourages a resolution focused approach rather than adversarial proceedings.

Resolution rather than confrontation can often be an appropriate and wise approach. Facilitating communication between the university and the accused can foster a constructive dialogue aimed at reaching a fair resolution. Our goal is to ensure that all parties involved can move forward with clarity and understanding.

While university context is crucial, specialist lawyers’ experience can extend beyond the academic sphere. A Solicitor’s experience and expertise in navigating the criminal justice system – with a record of representing young people accused of some of the most serious sexual offences during Police investigations as well as Crown Court trials can be key in forming a robust defence.

Richard Etherington, Associate Solicitor, of Lupton Fawcett – a law firm which represents students facing allegations of sexual misconduct,  comments, “Our dual expertise uniquely positions us to help young people and their families through such cases. It is essential to have an experienced lawyer on board so that we can positively deal with any police investigation, court proceedings, or appeal.”

Discussing intimate matters can be embarrassing for a young person. Specialist lawyers have the skills and sensitivity required to handle difficult cases and to take comprehensive instructions from a student and their family.

It is natural for senior figures at universities to be concerned about the potential implications of allowing legal representation, and employing trained investigators, in internal proceedings related to campus sexual misconduct cases. The fears of making these processes resemble police investigations and criminal trials is valid, but it is crucial to emphasise that the goal remains ensuring fairness and justice while maintaining the integrity of the institution.

Universities are unique environments that serve not only as centres of learning but also as communities where students grow, develop, and interact. Preserving this educational ethos is paramount. The inclusion of legal representation and trained investigators need not transform these proceedings into adversarial or punitive processes. Instead, they can serve to bolster the fairness and transparency of internal investigations.

It’s essential to strike the right balance between safeguarding the rights of the accused and maintaining the educational mission of the university. Trained investigators bring a wealth of experience and expertise in handling sensitive cases without compromising the educational environment. Likewise, experienced lawyers ensure that due process is followed without unnecessarily adversarial or punitive elements.

Universities have their unique values, codes of conduct, and standards of behaviour. These principles should guide the handling of sexual misconduct cases. The involvement of legal representation and trained investigators can be aligned with these values, emphasising fairness, transparency, and accountability within the context of the university’s mission.

It is crucial to differentiate between internal proceedings and criminal trials. The primary aim of internal proceedings is not to secure criminal convictions but to address violations of university policies and codes of conduct. By maintaining this focus, universities can ensure that the educational outcomes and well-being of all students are at the forefront of their efforts.

The primary objective remains the pursuit of fairness, justice, and accountability within the framework of the university’s values and mission. Legal representation and trained investigators can play pivotal roles in achieving these goals while respecting the unique nature of higher education institutions. By finding the right balance, universities can ensure that their internal processes remain aligned with their educational mission while addressing the complex issue of campus sexual misconduct with diligence and integrity.

The recent articles in The Guardian serve as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding university misconduct cases. Early legal representation is not about power but about justice. It protects the rights of the accused, supports the accuser, safeguards the university’s interests, and paves the way for resolution.