Checklist: Sexual Harassment Investigations

K-12 schools, colleges, and universities must conduct sexual violence and harassment investigations in accordance with federal compliance requirements, state law, and the institution's own policy. This checklist highlights best practices for investigating sexual violence and harassment complaints involving both students and employees. Use the checklist to review your institution’s investigation procedures to be sure they adhere to both the law and best practices.

Topics addressed in this checklist include:

• How to best select external investigators, including considerations such as whether they have necessary training, knowledge, and skill levels
• How to collect relevant information in a manner that limits redundant or unnecessary interviews
• Proper interview techniques
• Items investigators must include within reports

Additional Resources

Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013

Violence Against Women Act Regulations (October 2014)