Our Higher Education Practice advises public and private colleges, universities, and professional schools on the full spectrum of legal, regulatory, and strategic challenges facing academic institutions. We understand that institutions must address their legal challenges in a manner that advances their academic mission and aligns with the needs of their community.

We partner with institutional leaders – boards, presidents, general counsel, senior administrators, and academic leadership – to deliver practical, tailored legal solutions. Co-chaired by a former university general counsel with extensive experience in higher education and a nationally recognized trial lawyer with expertise handling high-stakes litigation, our team combines deep subject-matter expertise with a nuanced understanding of the unique governance structures, cultures, and priorities that shape higher education.

Our approach is collaborative and holistic. We recognize that a legal issue in one area – whether governance, employment, student affairs, or operations – can have wide-ranging implications across a campus. Whether guiding strategic initiatives, addressing regulatory compliance, or defending institutional interests in litigation, we provide forward-thinking counsel aligned with each client’s goals, governance structures, and campus culture.

Employment & Labor

We provide strategic guidance on workforce management and compliance, helping institutions build strong, legally sound employment practices:

  • Drafting and negotiating employment agreements for leadership, faculty, and staff.
  • Advising on tenure, promotion, grievance, and disciplinary processes.
  • Defending against claims of discrimination (Title VII, ADA, ADEA), harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination.
  • Counseling on leave policies, including FMLA, parental, and medical leave.
  • Supporting compliance with wage and hour laws such as FLSA and state regulations.
Student Affairs

We support institutions in fostering safe, inclusive, and legally compliant learning environments:

  • Advising on Title VI, Title IX, Clery Act, and VAWA compliance.
  • Developing, revising, and applying student conduct and expressive activity policies.
  • Crafting and enforcing student housing policies and contracts.
  • Advising on accessibility and disability accommodations under ADA and Section 504.
  • Defending against student complaints and litigation.
Governance & Compliance

We provide guidance on institutional governance, transparency, and regulatory compliance:

  • Counseling boards on governance, fiduciary responsibilities, and bylaw development.
  • Advising on public record and open meeting laws, including FOIA compliance.
  • Navigating accreditation standards and oversight processes.
  • Advising on student privacy, data security, and FERPA compliance.
  • Managing risk in affiliations, foundations, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships.
Business & Operational Matters

We advise on the business and operational functions essential to a thriving academic institution:

  • Structuring real estate transactions, leasing, and campus development projects.
  • Protecting and licensing intellectual property, including trademarks, copyrights, and patents.
  • Negotiating vendor agreements, service contracts, and procurement arrangements.
  • Advising on NCAA compliance and athletics-related legal issues.
  • Supporting development efforts, including donor agreements and endowment management.
Litigation & Crisis Management

We represent institutions in disputes, helping them respond to crises with strategic foresight:

  • Handling litigation, arbitration, and administrative proceedings at all levels.
  • Asserting sovereign immunity defenses for public institutions.
  • Conducting internal investigations and compliance audits.
  • Responding to subpoenas, government inquiries, and enforcement actions.
  • Managing reputational risk in high-profile or sensitive matters.