Education and Independent Schools

McLane's Education and Independent School attorneys represent a large number of independent schools and colleges in the New England region and beyond. With twelve attorneys practicing in this area of law, we believe our focus and dedication to this industry is unparalleled.

The McLane attorneys who advise educational institutions are drawn from a wide range of legal areas, including business, employment, immigration, real estate, litigation, administrative and taxation law. All the attorneys who advise educational institutions apply their skills in these specific areas of law to the unique needs of educational institutions.

Representing independent schools and colleges in all aspects of operation, our attorneys advise clients on a wide range of issues: from administration, employment and fiscal matters to risk management; torts; training; regulatory compliance; and immigration issues. Our representation includes assistance regarding faculty, staff, and student matters; policy drafting and implementation; training and seminars; internal investigations; and representation before federal, state, and local courts and agencies.

Regarding the administration of schools, our attorneys advise on corporate governance issues, including representation of the Board of Trustees. We also advise on fiscal and financial issues and their legal risks and opportunities, including tax-exempt status. The McLane Firm has a strong employment practice and represents educational institutions in both litigated and non-litigated employment matters, including tenure; personnel policies; student handbooks; the Americans with Disabilities Act; civil rights; immigration issues for faculty and students; employee benefits; and sexual harassment.

Risk management is always an important issue, and one in which McLane has significant experience with in counseling private schools on a variety of issues. We provide advice and conduct training programs on such issues as reporting laws, sexual harassment, and professional boundaries for teachers. In addition, our attorneys work with a number of education clients on the issues specifically relating to the risks unique to summer programs. Should the need for litigation arise in any area, our attorneys include some of the most experienced litigators in New England.

School Health Services is another area the Group advises on, including confidentiality issues; licensing; risk management; HIPAA; and regulatory compliance.

The McLane Law Firm is an active member of the National Association of Independent Schools.

For further information on the Education and Independent School Practice Group, contact one of our Education Attorneys