Advisor Information

Who can be an Advisor? 

The complainant(s) and the respondent(s) each may have an Advisor present with them during the alternative resolution and formal investigation processes to provide moral support and guidance. Advisors must be identified to the Director of Equity and Title IX Coordinator at least two business days before the date of the first investigators meeting, hearing panel, or appeal meeting by submitting a signed Equity & Title IX Advisor Obligating Affirmation and Acknowledgment Form. 

The complainant(s) and the respondent(s) have the right to identify anyone to be their Advisor through the entire process. However, the University encourages you to consider the following: 

• The Advisor cannot be another complainant, respondent, or witness in this investigation.  
• An Advisor must keep confidential the information shared during meetings and throughout the investigation and resolution process.
• An Advisor needs to be someone you feel comfortable with knowing the details of the incident and someone you feel comfortable with being present as you recount sometimes explicit details.
• An Advisor needs to be someone who can assist you in understanding the University’s policies and procedures and help you identify questions that you may have throughout the process. 

Can an Advisor be an Attorney? 

It is the complainant’s and respondent’s decision whether to seek the advice and assistance of an attorney, at their own expense, if they need legal advice. Although anyone has the right to seek legal advice, neither the complainant nor the respondent may be represented by legal counsel at investigatory interviews, hearing panel, or an appeal hearing. However, an attorney can serve as your Advisor adhering to the guidelines of an Advisor. 

What is the role of an Advisor? 

• All Advisors must closely review the University of Redlands Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Retaliation (“Policy”). By accepting the role of Advisor, you agree to comply with the rules and processes set forth in the Policy and the procedures identified by the Office of Equity & Title IX and all appropriate instructions by University Officials. 
• An Advisor may not advocate for a party like an attorney would in court. In other words, the Advisor does not serve as an advocate or representative of a party and may not be actively involved in any of the investigation proceedings policy (except for conducting cross-examinations during hearings pursuant to Section III(C)(3)) but provide emotional support and behind-the-scenes guidance. 
• During meetings and proceedings, a party may confer with their Advisor. The party may request a short recess in the meeting or proceeding to do so, but before the recess, the party may be asked to answer any questions previously posed to them at the meeting or proceeding. 
• The University reserves the right to dismiss an Advisor who is disruptive or who does not adhere to the limitations outlined.   
• The Policy prohibits retaliation against any individuals filing a complaint of this nature or participating in the investigation of the complaint.  As an Advisor you are protected by and subject to this retaliation prohibition.  You may not retaliate against any person participating in this process.  If you feel you are retaliated against for your participation, please contact the Interim Director of Equity and Title IX Coordinator, Brent Geraty via email at brent_geraty@redlands.edu, via phone at:  909-748-8916.  

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