Charter School Law – Advocating for Students, Parents, and Educators

Charter Schools Operate Under Unique Rules – We Ensure They Follow the Law

Charter schools offer an alternative to traditional public education, providing parents and students with more choices. However, they must still comply with state and federal education laws while operating under their own governance structures. When disputes arise over student rights, disciplinary actions, special education services, funding, or employment matters, legal intervention may be necessary to ensure fairness and accountability.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we represent students, parents, educators, and charter school administrators in a wide range of legal matters, from disciplinary hearings and special education disputes to employment and governance issues. Whether you need to challenge an unfair policy, secure appropriate services, or resolve a dispute with a charter school, we are here to help.

Legal Issues in Charter Schools – What We Handle

Student Rights & Disciplinary Actions

• Suspensions and expulsions – Ensuring charter schools follow due process and state law
• Bullying and harassment – Holding schools accountable for failing to address student safety concerns
• Academic misconduct and cheating allegations – Defending students against wrongful accusations
• Student privacy violations – Ensuring compliance with FERPA and state data protection laws

Special Education & Disability Accommodations

• IEP and 504 Plan disputes – Ensuring students receive necessary accommodations and services
• Failure to provide Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) – Challenging charter schools that deny special education rights
• Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) violations – Advocating for inclusion and appropriate placement
• Manifestation determination hearings – Defending students with disabilities facing disciplinary actions

Charter School Governance & Accountability

• Compliance with state and federal education laws – Ensuring charter schools operate lawfully
• Charter revocation and renewal disputes – Assisting schools with compliance and defending against improper closure
• Funding and resource allocation – Addressing inequitable distribution of public funds to charter schools
• Enrollment disputes – Fighting unfair admissions policies that violate state charter laws

Employment & Educator Rights

• Wrongful termination and contract disputes – Protecting the rights of charter school teachers and staff
• Workplace discrimination and retaliation – Challenging unfair employment practices
• Tenure and professional licensing issues – Ensuring compliance with state employment laws for educators
• Collective bargaining and labor law compliance – Representing charter school employees in workplace disputes

Who We Represent

• Students and parents challenging unfair discipline, discrimination, or special education violations
• Teachers and staff involved in employment disputes or wrongful termination cases
• Charter school administrators seeking legal guidance on compliance and governance
• Families addressing enrollment conflicts and access to educational services

Frequently Asked Questions: Charter School Law

Do charter school students have the same rights as public school students?

Yes. While charter schools operate independently, they must comply with federal laws, state regulations, and their own charter agreements. This includes following due process for discipline, providing equal access to special education, and ensuring student safety.

Can a charter school expel my child without a hearing?

No. Charter schools must provide students with notice of disciplinary actions, a fair hearing, and an opportunity to appeal. If your child was expelled unfairly, legal action may be necessary.

Are charter schools required to provide special education services?

Yes. Charter schools must comply with IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), Section 504, and ADA to ensure students with disabilities receive proper accommodations and services.

Can charter schools deny admission to students?

Charter schools cannot discriminate in enrollment based on race, disability, academic performance, or socioeconomic status. If you believe your child was unfairly denied admission, you may have legal grounds to challenge the decision.

What rights do charter school teachers have?

Charter school teachers often work under at-will contracts, but they are still protected against wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, and contract violations.

Charter School Disputes Require Strong Legal Advocacy – We’re Here to Help

Charter schools provide valuable educational opportunities, but when rights are violated, funding is misallocated, or policies are unfair, legal action may be necessary. Whether you are a student facing wrongful expulsion, a parent fighting for special education services, or an educator dealing with employment issues, we provide experienced legal guidance to protect your interests.

Contact Ratliff Jackson LLP today to discuss your charter school legal matter.