Announcement:
⚠️ Caution: Bias in Respondent Support Services
⚠️ Caution: Bias in Respondent Support Services
Many colleges and universities operate some type of Respondent Support Services, Respondent Services Offices, or Respondent Resources for those accused of sexual misconduct, but these offices may not be neutral resources. While these offices are presented as “support” for respondents, in practice they are often designed to manage risk for the institution, not to ensure fairness for accused individuals. Approach them with extreme caution, and make sure you have your own independent sources of support if faced with an allegation.
Presumption of Guilt in Language
Staff in these offices may refer to complainants as “survivors” or “victims” before an investigation or adjudication has been completed. This choice of language assumes the truth of the allegation and undermines the principle of innocent until proven guilty.
Unequal Framing of Roles
The accused individual may be consistently called the “respondent,” a legalistic label that can carry an implicit assumption of wrongdoing. This inherently places the accused in a reactive or defensive posture: they are “responding” to someone else’s claims. It can subtly suggest that they already owe an explanation or justification, as though some wrongdoing is assumed. In contrast, complainants are given affirming terms (i.e., victim) that validate their claims in advance. This imbalance undermines neutrality by embedding partiality in the very titles each party carries.
Focus is on Accountability, Not Defense
Often respondents are offered resources that emphasize “taking accountability” or “changing behavior,” rather than resources to help defend against false, mistaken, or exaggerated allegations. Genuine support for innocence, fairness, and due process can be minimal or absent.
Imbalance of Assumptions
The structure and messaging of these services could give respondents the impression that their guilt has already been decided, and that the only path forward is confession and compliance—rather than a fair chance to present evidence, witnesses, or context.
Key concerns to look for:
If you are named as a respondent, do not assume that “Respondent Support Services” are neutral advocates for your rights. They may, in fact, operate with a presumption of guilt. You have the right to seek independent advice and support, including legal counsel or outside advocacy groups that focus on due process protections.
What this means for students and faculty:
What FACE Does
Why Advocate for Those Wrongfully Accused
Let's Talk
Don't be afraid to say hello
Use the form to reach out for support, and a member of the FACE Outreach Committee will contact you. Please be as detailed as possible. Include the college or university, along with any specific requests or questions. To help us best serve your case, we recommend that you first describe the issue you’re having before telling us what you want to achieve. You may also email or call us. Our general response time is one business day.
