At DownsAaron, we deeply value the mission of higher education institutions and understand the complex challenges they face. Our attorneys bring firsthand appreciation for the transformative power of educationโafter all, our own professional capabilities rest upon the foundation of our educational experiences.
Comprehensive Legal Support for Educational Institutions
We partner with colleges, universities, and other higher education institutions to provide strategic legal guidance across all aspects of operations, governance, and student affairs.
Policy Development & Governance
- Institutional Policies โ Crafting legally sound policies that align with your mission while ensuring compliance
- Handbooks & Procedures โ Developing comprehensive faculty, staff, and student handbooks
- Governance Structure โ Advising boards and administration on governance best practices
- Strategic Planning โ Providing legal guidance for institutional growth and development
Regulatory Compliance
- Federal Regulations โ Ensuring adherence to Title IX, the Clery Act, FERPA, ADA, and other federal mandates
- State Requirements โ Navigating state-specific educational regulations and reporting requirements
- Accreditation Support โ Advising on compliance with accreditation standards and processes
- Research Compliance โ Guidance on grants, intellectual property, and research protocols
Student Affairs & Campus Life
- Student Conduct โ Developing fair and legally defensible disciplinary procedures
- Health & Safety โ Advising on liability management and duty of care obligations
- Disability Accommodations โ Ensuring appropriate accessibility and reasonable accommodations
- Student Organizations โ Guidance on recognition, funding, and oversight of student groups
- First Amendment Issues โ Balancing free expression with educational mission and campus safety
Employment & Labor Matters
- Faculty Affairs โ Addressing tenure, promotion, and academic freedom issues
- Staff Employment โ Guidance on hiring, discipline, and separation
- Union Relations โ Strategic advice for labor negotiations and grievance processes
- Title VII & IX Compliance โ Developing effective anti-discrimination and harassment policies
Dispute Resolution & Crisis Management
- Internal Investigations โ Conducting thorough, impartial investigations of misconduct allegations
- Complaint Resolution โ Representing institutions in grievances and administrative hearings
- Litigation Defense โ Skilled representation in court proceedings when necessary
- Crisis Response โ Strategic guidance during institutional emergencies and high-profile incidents
Federal Court Representation
DownsAaron attorneys are admitted to practice in all Florida federal courts, enabling us to effectively litigate higher education cases at the federal level throughout the state. This federal court admission allows us to provide comprehensive representation for institutions facing complex litigation in the federal court system.
The DownsAaron Approach
We understand that educational institutions face unique pressuresโbalancing academic freedom with compliance requirements, maintaining safety while respecting individual rights, and upholding excellence while managing limited resources.
Our attorneys approach each matter with sensitivity to these competing demands, offering practical solutions that protect your institution while advancing your educational mission. We pride ourselves on becoming true partners with our higher education clients, providing responsive counsel that reflects our deep respect for the vital work you do.
Partner with Counsel Who Understands Your Mission
Educational excellence requires sound legal advice. Choose counsel that understands the delicate balance between legal compliance and academic freedom. Contact DownsAaron today to help your institution navigate todayโs complex legal landscape while staying true to your academic mission.