Public Schools

We recognize that the legal needs of a public school district are diverse. Our attorneys have experience and expertise in a wide variety of legal disciplines pertinent to issues faced by school systems. Lawyers in our office have represented school districts, colleges and universities, and municipalities throughout Michigan.

The types of matters which we have handled for public sector clients include the following:

• Employment and labor relations, including collective bargaining negotiations, grievance arbitration and litigation in courts and before the Michigan Employment Relations Commission
• Bonds and other public finance matters
• Elections, including millage proceedings
• Open Meetings Act issues
• Freedom of Information Act issues
• Inter-governmental agency relationships, agreements, contracts, and joint ventures
• Operational policies for boards of education
• Tax and related issues, including assistance with state audits
• Student affairs issues
• Student and employee grievance issues
• Issues affecting parent, booster, and auxiliary groups
• Litigation in all state and federal courts and before administrative agencies
• Real estate related matters
• Contract drafting, negotiation, enforcement, and dispute resolution
• Employee benefits and benefit plans, including section 125 cafeteria plans, section 403(b) tax-deferred annuity plans, and section 457 deferred compensation plans
• Licensing and regulation
• Federal and state grant programs
• Legislation and administrative regulations, including drafting, lobbying, and testimony
• Internet and e-commerce issues