Individual Advising + Representation

OCC attorneys and related professionals routinely advise students, educators, faculty members and administrators through Title IX proceedings and other school-based or personnel investigations. Our advising focuses on making sure that advisees are aware of their rights under state and federal laws and school policy. Our professionals have a wealth of experience in Title IX proceedings, as most have been involved in every facet, including advising, investigating, decision-making, informal resolution and appeals.

Workplace Investigations

When complaints are reported, organizations need a trusted, impartial investigator who can assess the facts with professionalism and integrity. Our professionals conduct truly independent workplace investigations involving allegations of discrimination, harassment, bullying, retaliation, general misconduct and other policy violations. We efficiently gather and compile evidence, interview witnesses, and provide clear, well-reasoned investigative reports that help employers make informed decisions and satisfy their legal obligations.

School + Title IX Investigations

We provide truly independent investigations for K–12 school districts, charter schools, private schools, colleges and universities. Our investigators conduct fair, thorough, and legally sound investigations in accordance with institutional policies and applicable state and federal laws, including Title IX and other anti-discrimination laws. Through a proven and established system and process, we deliver clear, concise and objective investigation reports that help institutions reach conclusions with confidence.

Our school-based investigations commonly involve:

• Title IX sex-based harassment and sexual misconduct

• Student or employee harassment and discrimination

• Bullying, hazing, and retaliation

• Civil rights complaints

• Employee misconduct and policy violations

• Administrator or board member misconduct

• Conflicts of interest and ethics concerns

• Social media and technology policy violations

• Other complaints requiring an independent, neutral review

Mediation + Informal Resolution

Not every dispute is best resolved through a formal investigation and/or litigation. Our experienced education-focused mediators help schools, educational institutions, employers, employees, parents, and students resolve conflicts through confidential, collaborative mediation. By encouraging productive dialogue and practical solutions, mediation can preserve relationships while reducing the time, cost, and disruption associated with more adversarial processes. We regularly mediate disputes involving employment matters, student services, attendance and residency, special education and Section 504 concerns, parental rights, transportation, bullying and harassment, contract and workplace issues, Title IX, Title VI, and Title VII matters, along with other education-related conflicts.

Title IX Decision-Making and Appeals

OCC provides experienced education attorneys and related professionals for independent decision-making and appeals. We understand that a strong, consistent and understandable written decision is instrumental in resolving an investigation and maintaining compliance under the law. Similar to our investigation reports, we apply a proven and established process to deliver clear, concise and objective written decisions that resolve investigations and limit appeals.

Training + Prevention

The best way to address workplace harassment is to prevent it. We offer engaging, practical training programs tailored to the needs of schools, colleges, universities, employers, and other organizations. Our attorneys and investigators provide actionable guidance that promotes compliance, reduces risk, and fosters safe, respectful, and inclusive environments. Training may include:

• Title IX compliance and sexual harassment prevention

• Workplace harassment and discrimination prevention

• Civil rights and equity issues

• FERPA and student privacy

• Employee conduct and professional boundaries

• Student conduct and professionalism

• Restorative practices and disciplinary alternatives

• Coach-athlete and educator-student boundaries

• Fraternity and sorority leadership and risk management

• Employee sensitivity training

• Customized