Educational institutions, like other public agencies, are tasked with operating under strict federal, state, and local regulations, often with limited resources and increasing demands. Unlike other public entities, however, schools have the added responsibility of educating and nurturing students in a safe and compliant environment. Navigating this complex landscape requires specialized legal counsel. For over four decades, Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin (AGC) has been a trusted partner to public and private K-12 schools, school districts, county offices of education, community colleges, and universities throughout California.
AGC provides comprehensive, cost-effective legal solutions that allow educational institutions to focus on their primary mission—educating students—while ensuring compliance with the evolving legal requirements that govern them. Our firm works hand-in-hand with educational leaders to develop practical legal options that address the unique challenges faced by schools, including student discipline, employment matters, facilities management, and regulatory compliance.
Comprehensive Legal Support for Educational Institutions
AGC’s Education Law practice covers the broad spectrum of legal issues that schools, districts, and educational institutions encounter on a daily basis. From ensuring compliance with federal mandates to representing schools in litigation, we offer specialized legal services that address the unique needs of education clients. Our services include:
Employment and Labor Issues
Managing relationships with faculty, administrators, and support staff is critical for maintaining a healthy school environment. AGC provides legal counsel on collective bargaining agreements, employee grievances, staff discipline, and discrimination claims. We guide schools through the intricacies of state and federal labor laws, including compliance with the California Educational Employment Relations Act (EERA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Our attorneys also assist schools in managing sensitive employee-related matters, ensuring compliance while minimizing disruption.
Governance and Board Relations
Effective school governance is crucial for maintaining legal compliance and avoiding disputes. AGC advises school boards and administrators on compliance with governance laws, including the Brown Act, the California Public Records Act, and conflict-of-interest regulations. We assist in drafting and revising board policies, ensuring compliance with open meeting laws, and addressing disputes among board members or between the board and staff.
Construction and Facilities Management
Public schools face unique challenges when it comes to the construction and maintenance of their facilities. AGC’s attorneys are experienced in handling legal matters related to school construction, contract negotiations, public works disputes, and environmental compliance. Our team ensures that all school facilities are built and maintained in accordance with legal standards, including Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, which governs the physical accessibility and safety of school sites.
Charter Schools
Charter schools face legal challenges that differ from traditional public schools. AGC provides specialized counsel to charter school operators, helping them navigate the complexities of charter agreements, renewals, employment matters, and student discipline. We represent charter schools in disputes with authorizing agencies and ensure compliance with state laws that govern charter operations.
Proactive Legal Strategies for Schools
At AGC, we believe that proactive legal strategies are essential for minimizing risks and avoiding costly legal challenges. We work with school administrators and boards to provide customized training programs, risk assessments, and policy reviews that help identify potential legal issues before they escalate. Our attorneys stay current on the latest legal trends and regulatory changes affecting public education, offering advice that keeps schools ahead of the curve.
Whether it’s drafting employment policies, reviewing contracts, or overseeing the legal issues involved in construction of schools and educational facilities, AGC takes a preventive approach that allows schools to focus on their core mission—educating students.
When litigation becomes unavoidable, AGC is equipped to represent schools in state and federal courts, administrative hearings, and arbitration.
Our litigation team works efficiently to resolve disputes while minimizing disruption to the school environment, always with a focus on protecting the interests of the educational institution and its students.
Trusted Counsel for Public Schools
AGC’s attorneys are committed to providing trusted, reliable legal counsel to public schools and educational institutions. We understand the unique challenges that schools face, from compliance with state and federal mandates to managing internal disputes and governance issues. Our long-standing experience in education law allows us to offer tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of each client.
Industry Leaders in Education Law
AGC’s attorneys are active members in education-related professional organizations and frequently present at conferences on topics ranging from special education law to governance and student discipline. With decades of experience, our firm remains at the forefront of legal developments in education law, ensuring our clients benefit from the most current and effective legal strategies.
Partner with AGC for Expert Education Law Services
Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin is a trusted legal partner to our California public schools, districts, and educational institutions. Whether you need assistance with compliance, labor negotiations, construction law, or litigation, our experienced attorneys are here to help.
Need Legal Guidance for Your School or District?
Contact Alvarez-Glasman & Colvin today to discuss how we can provide the legal support your institution needs to succeed.