We regularly represent school districts in high-stakes administrative proceedings, including matters before the New York State Education Department, the State Division of Human Rights, the State Review Officer (SRO), the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB), and the Office for Civil Rights (OCR). Our services include:

 

• Appeals to the Commissioner of Education under Education Law §310

• Impartial hearings and SRO appeals under the IDEA

• PERB improper practice charges and representation disputes

• Discrimination claims before the NYS Division of Human Rights or EEOC

• Title IX investigations and OCR enforcement actions

• FOIL appeals and Open Meetings Law disputes

We represent school districts in a wide range of employment-related disputes, including discipline, grievance arbitration, and union-related litigation. Our attorneys are experienced in handling proceedings under Education Law §3020-a, Civil Service Law §75, and collective bargaining agreements. We litigate matters involving:

 

• Termination of tenured teachers and certified administrators

• Employee misconduct and workplace harassment claims

• Grievances and labor arbitration

• Improper practice charges and labor board hearings

• Contract disputes and MOA enforcement

When student behavior leads to suspension, expulsion, or allegations of rights violations, we ensure that districts uphold the law while maintaining safe and inclusive learning environments.We defend districts in:

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•  Superintendent’s hearings and appeals

• Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs) and IDEA-related claims

• First Amendment and student speech litigation

• Residency and enrollment disputes

• OCR and state agency investigations

We provide vigorous representation in court when districts face disputes involving vendors, contractors, or third parties. Our attorneys have successfully litigated matters in state and federal court, including claims of breach of contract, negligence, and regulatory violations. We handle:

 

• Construction disputes and contractor claims

• Breach of contract and service provider litigation

• Procurement and bidding challenges

• Tax certiorari and assessment proceedings

• Premises liability and tort claims (defense)

Litigation isn’t always the best path forward. We help districts evaluate risk and explore alternatives such as negotiation, mediation, or settlement where appropriate—always with an eye toward preserving relationships and protecting public resources. Our proactive services include:

 

• Pre-litigation risk assessments

• Mediation strategy and representation

• Settlement negotiation and drafting

• Legal audits to reduce future claims