Columbia University Disciplinary Procedure for Sexual Assault

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can file a complaint of sexual assault? Against whom?

Any student can file a complaint. If the alleged offender is a student of CC/SEAS, the disciplinary procedure for sexual assault will be the exclusive mechanism for filing a complaint. Non-students who are bringing allegations against a CU student can also file a complaint. Complaints may not be brought against students from the Law School, Union Theological Seminary, or Jewish Theological Seminary. Dean's Discipline will address complaints brought against students at those particular schools.


How do I file a complaint?

Complaints are filed by contacting the Program Manager of the Disciplinary Procedure for Sexual Assault. To begin the official complaint procedure, a written complaint must be submitted to the office. The Program Manager can be reached at 212-854-1717; the office is located in 701A Lerner Hall.


What do I do if a complaint is filed against me?

You will be notified if a complaint is filed against you. Once you receive notice of the complaint, it is recommended that you carefully review the Sexual Assault Policy and contact the office with any questions you may have. Additionally, you may respond in writing to the allegations that have been made against you. For more information on your right to respond, present your testimony, and supply evidence, please visit the Disciplinary Procedure for Sexual Assault website or you may contact the Program Manager.

Disclaimer: The policy and procedures set forth on this Web site have been approved by the University's office of the General Counsel and are effective as of September 2008; accordingly, they are the governing Disciplinary Procedures for Sexual Assault.