Educational Institutions
We provide strategic advice to promote clarity and consistency in policymaking and procedures in support of educational objectives and mission
Expert guidance and counsel to preschools, elementary and secondary schools, and institutions of higher education.
We counsel leaders in education to protect their identity and mission and to successfully navigate legal risks and compliance requirements. We have specific expertise guiding religious schools, colleges, and universities through the unique challenges they face.
We provide strategic advice to promote clarity and consistency in policymaking and procedures in support of educational objectives and mission.
Trust our attorneys for responsible guidance that supports and aligns with your goals.
General or Special Counsel Representation to advise on:
Corporate Governance:
- Board fiduciary duties, conduct, and policies
- Committee charters, authority, and governance
- Board and executive team collaboration
Religious Liberty Protections:
- First Amendment protections, including Ministerial exception
- Other mission-based employment practices
- Integration of religious identity and mission in institutional documents, policies, and procedures
Regulatory Compliance:
- Title IX, Clery Act, and Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) compliance
- Policy development, investigations, and staff training
- Federal agency investigations and inquiries
Family and Student Affairs:
- Family and student handbooks
- Student conduct policies
- Student misconduct investigations and resolutions
Employment Issues:
- Employment agreements and legal compliance
- Employee handbooks and policies
- Employee misconduct investigations
Intellectual Property Issues
- Intellectual property protection
- Trademark and copyright infringement
- Intellectual property agreements
Formation and operation of:
- Start-up private educational institutions, including proper entity selection, structure, and governance
- Subsidiary and affiliated entities
- Nonprofit relationships, affiliations, and joint ventures
Obtaining and maintaining:
- Federal and state income tax exemption
- Property tax exemption
- Sales tax exemption
Corporate, business, and other transactions:
- Mergers and acquisitions
- Revenue-generating activities (UBTI/UDFI)
- Real estate acquisitions, finance, leases, and use agreements
Charitable giving and compliance:
- Donor advised funds, fiscal sponsorships, and endowments
- Donations and fundraising activities
