Model Code And Restorative Justice: Experiences And Perception Of Campus Sexual Misconduct Adjudication

The purpose of this dissertation was to explore and examine whether restorative justice practices would be a utilized and meaningful resolution for campus adjudication of sexual misconduct. Specifically, this study examined if reporting parties and responding parties would be more likely to pursue reporting options through a restorative justice process and if restorative justice should be an alternative approach to addressing sexual misconduct cases on university and college campuses. This study was conducted using a feminist legal theory framework. Through the use of survey research, 200 participants completed a survey to share their experiences and perceptions with Model Code and restorative justice processes. This study is timely considering the political and legal landscape we find ourselves in today regarding Title IX. As some colleges and universities consider the implementation of restorative justice to adjudicate sexual misconduct, campus administrators should seek the voices, experiences and perceptions of their student population.