The ombudsman will also provide mediation assistance. The ombudsman will first inform the complainant of their right to file a formal grievance and of the option available to them of contacting the University Affirmative Action Office within 180 days of the incident. Complainants will also be informed of the services provided by the University Ombud Office. The ombudsman will request that complainants sign a statement affirming that they have been informed of the aformentioned right and options, and that they understand that they have not initiated a formal grievance simply by contacting the department ombudsman. Each complainant will be informed that the signed statement will be kept confidential unless required as evidence should the complaint result in legal action.
Compliance is voluntary.
The ombudsman cannot offer legal advice but will help complainants understand the definitions of discrimination and sexual harassment and will inform them of the expert advice available to them at the University Affirmative Action Office. The ombudsman will provide each complainant with a list of informal options for resolving the complaint. The ombudsman may act as a mediator in discussions of the complaint with the accused. The ombudsman being present at a meeting of the accused and the complainant. Should the ombudsman conclude that the behavior of the accused was inconsistent with university and department standards, the ombudsman will present the matter to the department chair who will then meet with the accused and assume responsibility for further action in consultation with the ombudsman.