Strategic Advisor for Students Facing Title IX Allegations
If you are a student in Virginia accused of a Title IX violation, your academic and professional future may be at risk. Allegations of sexual misconduct, harassment, or dating violence on campus can result in suspension, expulsion, and long-lasting reputational harm. These cases often move quickly, and schools do not always offer clear or fair guidance. While you might seek out a Virginia Title IX lawyer, it’s equally important to find someone with practical insight into how schools operate.
Megan Ballard Mitchell is an experienced criminal defense attorney who advises students throughout the Title IX disciplinary process. With more than a decade of litigation experience and a background working for the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR), Megan brings unique insight into how Title IX cases are handled on college campuses. Her approach is informed by both legal strategy and institutional policy, helping students prepare effectively, protect their rights, and navigate high-stakes proceedings with confidence.
Now serving students in Virginia with a local office in Richmond
6802 Paragon Place
Suite 410
Richmond, VA 23230
Legal Insight That Goes Beyond the Campus
Megan Ballard Mitchell is an attorney with extensive experience advising students involved in Title IX investigations. Having worked directly for the U.S. Department of Education’s OCR, she has firsthand knowledge of how federal Title IX regulations are enforced and how schools attempt to meet compliance standards.
Megan also brings over a decade of experience as an attorney. Her background as a criminal defense attorney provides her with a deep understanding of how to examine evidence, assess credibility, and develop a cohesive theory of defense. She recognizes that school hearings are not criminal trials and cannot be treated the same way. However, she also knows that a student’s success in a Title IX case often depends on their ability to present a strong and persuasive case. Her balanced approach gives students the structure and strategy they need to succeed in a process that can often feel unfair or unclear.
Serving Students at Colleges and Universities Seeking an Virginia Title IX Lawyer
Megan Mitchell advises students enrolled at colleges and universities throughout Virginia, including:
- University of Virginia
- Virginia Tech
- Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
- James Madison University
- George Mason University
- College of William & Mary
- Liberty University
- Old Dominion University
- University of Richmond
- Washington and Lee University
- Mary Washington
- And other public and private institutions throughout the state
Each school follows its own Title IX procedures and hearing processes. Megan helps students understand those policies and apply them strategically while maintaining a strong defense grounded in federal rights.
Full-Service Title IX Advisory Support
Megan works with students at every stage of a Title IX case. Her involvement begins as early as the first notification of allegations and continues through to the final resolution. Her role as an advisor includes:
- Helping students understand the school’s process and their rights
- Reviewing the notice of allegations and available evidence
- Preparing for interviews and hearings
- Drafting written statements and strategic communications
- Attending all interviews and hearings in an advisory capacity
- Assisting with appeals and post-hearing planning
Although she does not provide legal representation in Virginia courts, Megan brings the benefit of legal training, investigative experience, and litigation-level preparation to each student she advises. Ms. Mitchell is licensed to practice law in Georgia and advises students in Virginia in a non-legal, advisory capacity.
Experience with OCR and Federal Title IX Enforcement
Megan’s work with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights gives her a deep understanding of how schools are expected to interpret and apply federal Title IX standards. She is familiar with how OCR investigates schools for compliance and how institutions respond to federal pressure. This knowledge allows her to:
- Identify when a university’s Title IX process is out of compliance with federal expectations
- Help students preserve records and build a case that protects their interests
- Navigate complex or escalating cases with confidence
- Advise students on whether additional legal or administrative action may be appropriate
Megan helps students balance institutional pressures and remain focused on building a strong and clear defense.
Guidance for Parents and Families
When a student is accused of a Title IX violation, parents are often left in the dark. The process is confusing, fast-moving, and emotionally charged. With permission from the student, Megan works closely with families to ensure they are informed, supported, and engaged in the right ways. She helps students take the lead in their case while providing steady guidance that keeps both students and parents grounded.
Her local presence in Richmond makes it easier for families across Virginia to meet in person when needed. She also offers virtual consultations to students and parents statewide.
Know Your Rights: You Are Entitled to an Advisor
Under federal Title IX regulations, every student involved in a disciplinary proceeding has the right to bring an advisor of their choosing. That advisor can be an attorney or non-attorney and may attend every meeting and hearing with the student.
Megan Ballard Mitchell serves as an advisor for students throughout Virginia, offering preparation, guidance, and on-the-record support throughout the Title IX process. While she does not practice law in Virginia, her background equips students with the level of analysis and preparation necessary to navigate this challenging process effectively.
Contact the Law Offices of M. Ballard Mitchell
If you or your child is facing a Title IX allegation at a Virginia college or university, early support is essential. These cases move quickly, and the decisions you make in the first few days can shape the entire outcome. Whether you’re searching for a Virginia Title IX lawyer or a strategic advisor who understands the process inside and out, Megan Ballard Mitchell can help.
Contact Megan Ballard Mitchell today or complete our confidential contact form to schedule a consultation.
