Litigating for Students: Strategies for Title IX and Student Disciplinary Cases

Keith Altman | K Altman Law

Keith Altman is the founder of K Altman Law, a national law firm that specializes in student defense and complex litigation matters. He is admitted to federal courts in California, Michigan, Maryland, as well as the U.S. Court of Appeals and the United States Supreme Court.

Mr. Altman is a member of the Sedona Conference, Working Group 1 (electronic discovery). He is the co-chair and founder of the American Association of Justice Electronic Discovery Litigation Group. He has appeared before the Federal Rules Committee on many relevant issues pertaining to the Federal Bar Association.

Mr. Altman is a forensic data analysis expert. He is also experienced in matters of pharmacovigilance and safety surveillance in the United States and Canada.

Timothy Markley | K Altman Law

Dr. Tim Markley is a seasoned educational leader and advocate. He currently serves as the Student Defense Manager at K Altman Law. In this role, he oversees the firm’s national student defense practice, advocating for K-12 and higher education students on matters involving academic integrity, misconduct, and Title IX appeals. Dr. Markley leads a team dedicated to safeguarding students’ rights, providing expert guidance throughout disciplinary processes, and ensuring fair outcomes in challenging situations.

With over two decades of experience in education, Dr. Markley brings a wealth of knowledge to his work. He holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, an MSA in School Administration from Fayetteville State University, and a BA in History from the University of North Carolina Pembroke. His career includes transformative leadership as Superintendent of several school districts, where he spearheaded initiatives to improve student achievement, pass significant school bonds, and implement innovative programs.

Recognized as a Southeast Regional Superintendent of the Year and a speaker at national educational conferences, Dr. Markley combines his deep understanding of educational systems with a commitment to student advocacy. He also contributes to higher education as a University Field Supervisor at Appalachian State University, mentoring future educators.

Dr. Markley’s dedication to education, equity, and justice makes him a leading voice in supporting students’ academic and personal success. Through his role at K Altman Law, he continues to champion the rights of students across the country.

I. Understanding and Challenging Campus Disciplinary Procedures | 1:00pm – 1:30pm

• Analysis of student misconduct cases and the role of due process
• Institutional policies vs. legal rights: Where schools overstep
• Common procedural flaws and legal challenges

II. Defending Students in Title IX and Misconduct Cases | 1:30pm – 2:00pm

• Key differences between Title IX cases and general disciplinary matters
• Due process concerns in Title IX proceedings and how to address them
• Fighting wrongful accusations and biased investigations

Break | 2:00pm – 2:10pm

III. Litigating Campus Disciplinary Cases | 2:10pm – 2:40pm

• When and how to take legal action against institutions
• Challenging unfair disciplinary decisions in court
• Understanding case law trends in student rights litigation

IV. Strategic Advocacy in Disciplinary Hearings and Appeals | 2:40pm – 3:10pm

• Preparing students for questioning and cross-examination
• Legal remedies for students facing unjust punishments
• Building a case for appeal or external legal action