Education Lawyers

Education Law Attorneys for Families and Students

Whether your child is facing expulsion, denied special education services, or discriminated against in a public school or university, the law offers protection — but you have to know how to use it. That’s where we come in.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we represent students and families in education law matters across New Jersey and beyond. From K–12 special education disputes to higher-ed expulsion appeals, we help families protect their rights, navigate complex school systems, and resolve high-stakes issues with clarity and strategy.

Our Education Law Services

We represent students in public, charter, private, and higher education settings. Our services include:

K–12 Advocacy:

• IEP & 504 Plan Disputes
• Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) enforcement
• Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) placement conflicts
• Evaluations and Assessments disputes
• Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs) for students with disabilities
• School discipline defense (suspension, expulsion, bullying claims)
• Due process hearings before the NJ Office of Administrative Law
• Discrimination or retaliation claims under IDEA, Section 504, and the ADA

Higher Education Representation:

• College expulsion and suspension appeals
• Title IX defense for accused students
• Grade and academic integrity disputes
• Disability accommodations enforcement
• Graduate, law, and medical school disciplinary defense
• FERPA and record-related issues
• Campus housing and enrollment revocation disputes

We take education cases seriously — because the outcomes often affect a student’s future long after the immediate issue is resolved.

Why Families Choose Ratliff Jackson LLP

We understand that education cases don’t just involve legal rules — they involve relationships, emotions, and high-stakes futures. Our approach is:

• Legally precise: We know education statutes, administrative law, and federal protections inside and out.
• Procedurally strategic: We know how schools operate — and how to move within or against their systems.
• Personally responsive: You won’t be left guessing. We guide families step-by-step, with clarity and urgency.
• Outcome-focused: Whether that’s keeping a child in class, securing services, or restoring a clean academic record, we stay focused on what matters.

We represent students of all ages and ability levels — including those with ADHD, autism, emotional disabilities, learning disabilities, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions: Education Law in NJ

What is an education lawyer?

An education lawyer helps students and families resolve disputes involving school discipline, disability rights, academic access, and unfair treatment by schools, districts, or universities.

When should I call a lawyer for a school issue?

Early. If your child has been denied services, suspended, expelled, or investigated, legal guidance before you respond can significantly improve outcomes.

What if my child has an IEP or 504 Plan and is being disciplined?

The school must follow specific legal procedures, including holding a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR). We ensure your child’s disability is properly considered.

Do college students have legal rights during expulsions or Title IX cases?

Yes. Colleges must provide notice, a hearing, and an opportunity to be heard. In Title IX cases, schools are also bound by federal due process and procedural fairness requirements.

Can you represent students outside of New Jersey?

Yes. We handle higher education cases — including expulsion, Title IX, and academic integrity appeals — nationwide, depending on school policies and hearing rules.

Protect Your Child’s Education — and Their Future

When schools overreach, fail to act, or ignore the law, families need strong legal advocacy. At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we hold schools accountable — and help students get the support, access, and fairness they deserve.

Call 856-209-3111 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with an education law attorney.