Frequently Asked Questions
We are here to answer your questions!
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On this page, professional staff from the Sexual Misconduct Support Team and the Sexual Misconduct Adjudication Team answer questions we hear often.
If you have a question that is not addressed here, please contact any of us. We can give you information and discuss your questions and concerns.
How long does the complaint process take?
"It’s really important to us that we complete a thorough investigation. Because of this, it can take several days to go through the process. The staff involved will work to assure it is handled in the timeliest manner possible. Complainants, respondents and witnesses may contact the Investigator or Complaint Coordinator at any time with questions about where we are at in the process."
—Amy Sillanpa, Complaint Process Coordinator and Associate Director of Residential Life
Other FAQs
- Who can I speak with confidentially?"Student Health and Counseling counselors and the College Chaplain are the only completely confidential resources...
- I had an uncomfortable sexual experience. I am confused about what I experienced and I'm not sure if I want to make a complaint. What should I do?"One helpful first step may be to seek support at Student Health and Counseling. There...
- Can I get academic accommodations if this is impacting my ability to do school work?"In short, yes, it is possible to request adjustments (e.g., extensions to academic deadlines). Please...
- Can I change rooms?"Housing accommodations are available for students involved in the sexual misconduct complaint process. Students can...
- What are the differences between Carleton’s complaint process and the legal process?"There is a difference between Carleton’s complaint process and an external legal process. Carleton’s complaint...
- What is stalking?"Stalking is a form of sexual harassment and may include persistent attempts to contact a...
- What does sexual misconduct look like at Carleton?"The most common reports of sexual assault are between two people who know each other. ...
- How common is sexual misconduct at Carleton?"Unfortunately sexual misconduct occurs at Carleton, and most incidents of it, whether it is sexual...
- How long after an incident can I submit a community concern form or file a complaint?"There is no time limit on submitting a community concern or filing a complaint. Please...
- How long does the complaint process take?"It’s really important to us that we complete a thorough investigation. Because of this, it...
- Will I have to face the other person (Complainant or Respondent) in a hearing?"No, we recognize that participating in a hearing may be difficult for those involved. So,...
- What are the penalties for sexual misconduct?"As an institution of higher learning, we try to avoid punitive penalties, but instead focus...
- How are members of the CBSM selected?"The Community Board on Sexual Misconduct is made of members of the Carleton community...faculty, staff...
- I am a parent of a student involved in a complaint process. Who can I contact?"Parents can contact any of the Class Deans with questions or concerns about the process. ...
- What if I was drinking when I was assaulted or harassed?"Alcohol tends to be a contributing factor in 90% of sexual misconduct cases, however, the...
- Can I file a complaint with the College and also with the police?"Yes, you may file a complaint with the College through the Carleton complaint process, and...
