Resources for Respondents

UC Berkeley is committed to a fair and equitable investigation and adjudication process. 

If you have been named as someone who may have violated a campus policy or committed a crime, you may experience a range of emotions, and have questions about how the processes impact your life and future. At UC Berkeley, there are resources available to help you understand the University's investigation and adjudication process, know your rights and options, and provide counseling and general support.

Respondent Services coordinators are available for students, staff, and faculty (find more information below). Respondent Services coordinators provide resources, information, and referrals.

Note: Counseling and ombuds staff are confidential, except in certain cases involving an imminent risk of harm to yourself or other people, and in cases of abuse or neglect of elders, dependent adults, or children. Respondent Services staff are Responsible Employees, not confidential resources; however, they do uphold federal guidelines and University policy around privacy. You are encouraged to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about confidentiality when you connect with the resource.

Respondent Services

Respondent Services coordinators provide resources, information, and referrals to individuals who have been charged with violating the university policies and face suspension or dismissal from the university. These charges can include sexual, behavioral, or academic misconduct. The goal of this service is to ensure that students who are engaged in the conduct process are informed of campus resources and receive assistance with the coordination of services and referrals.

Respondent Services coordinators do not participate directly in the SVSH university investigation and adjudication process. The Respondent Services Coordinator does not provide legal advice or advocacy on behalf of a respondent, and is not a confidential resource. The Respondent Services Coordinator provides help understanding and navigating the investigation/adjudication process and referrals to resources, in a nonjudgmental space. 

*It is important to note that the staff providing respondent services are NOT confidential resources, they are Responsible Employees. You are encouraged to discuss any questions or concerns about confidentiality when you first contact a resource. 

The role of the SVSH Respondent Support Services coordinator

If you have been accused of Prohibited Conduct (as defined by the UC SVSH Policy, a Respondent Services Coordinator can:

  • Help you understand your rights
  • Explain and help you navigate the investigation and adjudication processes, including formal hearings
  • Refer you to campus and community resources, such as for psychological counseling, legal services and other needs
  • Assist with securing an interpreter or translator, if needed

The SVSH Respondent Support Services coordinator is NOT

  • An advocate on behalf of the Respondent
  • A confidential resource
  • A provider of legal advice
  • An investigator or adjudicator in the Title IX process