We serve as chief negotiators and legal advisors in collective bargaining, helping school boards reach fair and fiscally responsible agreements with teachers, administrators, and support staff. We assist with:

 

• Contract drafting, review, and negotiations

• Taylor Law compliance and Triborough Amendment issues

• Mediation and fact-finding

• Memoranda of agreement and side letters

We represent school districts in both unionized and non-union settings during sensitive disciplinary matters. Our attorneys guide administrators through due process requirements and ensure proceedings are handled lawfully and respectfully. We regularly handle:

 

• Education Law §3020-a proceedings 

• Civil Service Law §75 hearings

• Investigations into misconduct, harassment, or discrimination

• Drafting of charges, notices, and settlement agreements

• Representation at arbitration or administrative hearings

Preventing litigation begins with clear, compliant, and well-communicated policies. We review and develop employment handbooks, staff codes of conduct, and HR procedures to help institutions minimize legal exposure. Key areas include:

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•  Discrimination, harassment, and retaliation policies

• ADA and reasonable accommodation practices

• Family and medical leave (FMLA)

• Remote work and leave policies

• Drug testing, fitness-for-duty, and workplace safety issues

Our firm defends school districts and educational institutions in a wide range of employment-related litigation before federal and state courts, administrative agencies, and the Commissioner of Education. We provide defense and guidance in cases involving:

 

• Title VII (discrimination based on race, sex, religion, etc.)

• Title IX (gender equity in employment and athletics)

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

• Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)

• NYS Human Rights Law and NYS Labor Law claims

• Retaliation and whistleblower complaints

We believe the best legal outcomes happen when problems are avoided before they begin. That’s why we offer custom training and ongoing counsel to superintendents, HR professionals, building principals, and board members. Our training programs cover:

 

• Proper handling of employee discipline

• Harassment prevention & Title IX obligations

• Conducting lawful investigations

• Legal updates and policy implementation