Public School Law – Protecting Students, Parents, and Educators

Public Schools Must Follow the Law – We Make Sure They Do

Public schools have a legal duty to provide students with a safe, fair, and equal education. However, schools often make decisions that violate student rights, deny necessary services, or unfairly discipline students. Whether you are a student facing disciplinary action, a parent fighting for special education services, or an educator dealing with an employment dispute, legal representation can make all the difference.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we represent students, parents, and educators in legal matters involving public school policies, student rights, special education compliance, and employment disputes. When schools fail to follow the law, we take action.

Legal Issues in Public Schools – What We Handle

Student Rights & Disciplinary Actions

• Suspensions and expulsions – Ensuring fair hearings and challenging unfair punishments
• Bullying and harassment – Taking action when schools fail to protect students
• Academic misconduct and plagiarism – Defending students accused of cheating or academic dishonesty
• Dress code and free speech violations – Protecting students’ constitutional rights

Special Education & Disability Rights

• IEP and 504 Plan disputes – Ensuring students receive the accommodations and services they are entitled to
• Failure to provide appropriate education – Challenging schools that deny students necessary support
• Manifestation determination reviews – Defending students with disabilities facing school discipline
• Least restrictive environment (LRE) violations – Ensuring students are not unnecessarily placed in restrictive settings

School Policies & Administrative Challenges

• Curriculum and standardized testing disputes – Addressing unfair or discriminatory policies
• School safety and disciplinary policies – Challenging zero-tolerance policies that harm students
• Title IX violations – Representing students in cases involving sexual harassment and gender discrimination

Educator & Employee Representation

• Wrongful termination and employment disputes – Protecting the rights of teachers and school staff
• Discrimination and retaliation – Challenging unfair employment practices in public schools
• Contract disputes and tenure issues – Ensuring fair treatment in employment agreements

Who We Represent

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we advocate for:

• Students facing suspension, expulsion, or unfair discipline
• Parents fighting for special education services and disability rights
• Educators dealing with employment disputes or wrongful termination
• Families challenging public school policies that violate student rights

Frequently Asked Questions: Public School Law

Can a public school suspend or expel my child without a hearing?
No. Public schools must provide due process, including notice of the charges and an opportunity to respond. If a school fails to follow proper procedures, the decision may be challenged.

Does my child have a right to special education services?
Yes. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), eligible students must receive appropriate services through an IEP. If a school fails to provide proper support, legal action may be necessary.

Can I challenge a school’s decision about my child’s education?
Yes. If a school refuses services, imposes unfair discipline, or violates a student’s rights, parents have the right to appeal or take legal action.

What rights do public school teachers have?
Public school teachers have rights under state and federal laws regarding employment contracts, due process, and protection from wrongful termination or discrimination.

Public School Issues Require Legal Advocacy – We’re Here to Help

Public schools have legal responsibilities, and when they fail to uphold them, students and educators suffer. Whether you’re dealing with school discipline, special education disputes, or employment issues, we fight to ensure fairness, accountability, and justice.

Contact Ratliff Jackson LLP today to discuss your case.