Protecting New Jersey & Pennsylvania Educators from Unlawful Discipline, Retaliation, and Licensing Threats

Teachers carry immense responsibility—educating children, managing classrooms, and complying with strict state and district rules. But when schools overstep, educators are often left to navigate confusing, adversarial systems alone.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we represent teachers, aides, and certified staff in disputes involving tenure, discipline, contract renewals, whistleblower retaliation, and certification defense. We are trusted legal advocates for educators across South Jersey and Southeastern Pennsylvania—especially when reputations, paychecks, or teaching licenses are at stake.

Common Legal Issues Facing Educators

Educators often face action from school boards, HR departments, or state licensing authorities with little warning or support. We regularly represent clients in cases involving:

• Alleged misconduct toward students or staff
• Administrative leave pending investigation
• Tenure charges under TEACHNJ
• Suspension or removal without due process
• Nonrenewal of non-tenured contracts without explanation
• Whistleblower retaliation (e.g., IEP violations, test score inflation)
• CEPA claims for speaking out about illegal or unethical school practices
• First Amendment retaliation
• Social media-related accusations
• Referrals to the New Jersey State Board of Examiners for potential certificate action

Whether you are a public school teacher, charter educator, private school instructor, or instructional aide, our firm is prepared to step in and protect your rights.

Your Legal Protections as an Educator

Tenure and Due Process

Under New Jersey law , tenured teachers cannot be terminated or suspended without formal charges, notice, and a hearing. The TEACHNJ Act reformed this process to allow arbitrators—not school boards—to decide tenure cases. We have deep experience preparing defense strategies and cross-examining witnesses at these hearings.

Whistleblower Rights

The Conscientious Employee Protection Act (CEPA) protects school employees who report unlawful or unethical conduct. If you were retaliated against after reporting discrimination, safety violations, or improper IEP implementation, CEPA may provide the basis for compensation and reinstatement.

Free Speech Protection

Public school teachers maintain limited but critical rights to speak out on issues of public concern—particularly when speaking as citizens rather than employees. Pickering v. Board of Education and subsequent First Amendment case law may protect you if you’re being disciplined for raising legitimate public policy concerns.

Employment Discrimination Laws

Federal protections under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibit discrimination based on race, sex, religion, national origin, age (40+), or disability. New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination offers even broader protections.

Licensing and Certification Defense

If your case is referred to the New Jersey State Board of Examiners, you could face suspension or revocation of your teaching certificate. We represent teachers during investigations, interviews, and formal proceedings before the Board.

Why Teachers Choose Ratliff Jackson LLP

Our attorneys have a firm grasp of employment law, education law, and the highly specific statutes and policies governing public school educators. We are not generalists. We tailor every defense around the client’s long-term professional goals and the unique politics of public school systems.

We don’t just push paper—we defend your name, your license, and your right to teach.

Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Career

If you’re facing retaliation, certification threats, or disciplinary action as an educator, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Our attorneys are ready to provide experienced legal guidance tailored to the realities of teaching in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

To schedule a confidential consultation, call 856-209-3111 or visit our consultation request page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a lawyer if my union is helping me?
Yes, in many cases. While unions can provide important protections, they may be unable—or unwilling—to challenge certain actions. You always have the right to private counsel.

Can I be fired without a hearing?
Not if you’re tenured. New Jersey law requires formal tenure charges and a hearing before a certified arbitrator. If you’re non-tenured, there are still protections against illegal or retaliatory nonrenewals.

What is a CEPA claim?
CEPA is New Jersey’s whistleblower statute. It protects school employees from retaliation after reporting illegal conduct, ethical breaches, or threats to public health, safety, or welfare.

What if I’m accused of misconduct by a student?
You should contact a lawyer immediately. Even if the allegation is false, the consequences can be devastating to your reputation and licensure. We know how to investigate and challenge these accusations effectively.

How do I know if my certification is at risk?
If your case is referred to the New Jersey State Board of Examiners, your certification may be in jeopardy. We represent educators throughout this process to defend their license.