Protecting the Rights of Students in New Jersey Schools and Colleges

Students in New Jersey have legal rights—even within school walls. Whether you’re facing suspension, expulsion, discrimination, or denial of services, those rights are protected by state and federal law. School administrators and boards do not have unlimited power. When a student’s education, record, or future is at risk, legal intervention is often necessary.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we represent K–12 and college students throughout Cherry Hill, Camden County, and South Jersey in disputes involving discipline, disability accommodations, academic misconduct, and Title IX complaints. Our goal is to ensure every student receives fair treatment and access to education without unlawful punishment or exclusion.

Student Rights Cases We Handle

We represent students and families in public, charter, and private schools, as well as colleges and universities. Common matters include:

• Long-term suspension and expulsion hearings
• Unfair discipline or zero-tolerance policies
• Denial of special education services (IDEA, IEP, 504 Plans)
• Bullying and harassment investigations
• Academic dishonesty and plagiarism allegations
• Title IX defense for accused students
• School residency disputes and enrollment denials
• Free speech, protest, and expression rights
• Student-athlete eligibility and participation conflicts
• Police involvement or criminal referrals from school incidents

We advocate at all stages: school-level hearings, district appeals, and administrative or court proceedings.

Know Your Rights: What Schools Can and Can’t Do

New Jersey students are entitled to due process before being disciplined or excluded from school. That includes:

• Notice of the alleged misconduct
• The right to be heard at a hearing
• Access to evidence used by the school
• The right to be represented by counsel
• Appeal of long-term exclusion decisions

Students with disabilities are also protected under IDEA, Section 504, and ADA. Schools must provide appropriate accommodations and cannot discipline disabled students without following strict legal procedures.

We ensure districts follow legal requirements—and hold them accountable when they don’t.

School Hearings and Appeals in South Jersey

We represent students in:

• Suspension and expulsion hearings
• Disciplinary board reviews and superintendent appeals
• HIB (Harassment, Intimidation & Bullying) determinations
• Residency and enrollment hearings
• Special education due process hearings
• College code of conduct and academic integrity boards
• NJDOE appeals and Office of Administrative Law (OAL) hearings

We work with parents, students, and school counsel to resolve issues quickly, but we are prepared to litigate when necessary.

Student Rights FAQs for New Jersey Families

Can my child be suspended without a hearing?
No. For suspensions over 10 days or any expulsion, your child has the right to a hearing. The district must give written notice and an opportunity to respond.

What if my child was bullied and then punished for reacting?
Schools must investigate all claims of harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB). If your child was retaliated against or the school ignored bullying reports, legal action may be appropriate.

Do I need a lawyer for a school hearing?
It depends on the severity of the case, but legal counsel is strongly recommended for suspensions, expulsions, or disability-related issues. We help families prepare, present evidence, and protect their child’s rights.

Can I sue the school if my child’s rights were violated?
In some cases, yes. If your child was denied services, discriminated against, or unlawfully punished, we may pursue action in state or federal court after exhausting administrative remedies.

What rights do students have in college disciplinary hearings?
College students have due process rights, including notice of charges, access to evidence, and the right to present a defense. We represent students in Title IX, conduct, and academic hearings across New Jersey.

Speak With a Student Rights Lawyer in Cherry Hill Today

School decisions can have lifelong consequences. Whether your child is facing suspension, disability discrimination, or a college conduct board, early legal help can protect their education and future. At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we defend student rights at every level—from elementary school to university.

Call (856) 209-3111 or email [email protected] to schedule a consultation. We’re ready to advocate for your student and ensure they’re treated fairly under the law.