Mission, institutional values and community come first at independent schools. These institutions need legal counsel who understand and advise in support of their distinct missions, governance structures and cultures.

At Fox Rothschild, we work closely with school leaders to deliver legal support tailored to your institution’s identity and business needs. Our guidance considers your entire immediate and extended communities — students, families, faculty and staff, trustees, alumni, donors and others with ties to the institution.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all advice. We help boards and school leadership navigate legal, operational and business challenges, reduce risk, and strengthen your school’s long-term health and sustainability. Our team is part of a nationally recognized Education Practice with decades of experience advising independent schools, colleges and universities throughout the country.

Fox’s seasoned and widely respected practitioners provide guidance on the evolving legal needs of our independent school clients in a variety of areas, including labor and employment, governance and board operations, student issues, construction, data privacy, real estate, immigration and tax.

What We Do

Employment

We guide schools in compliance with all relevant federal, state and local labor and employment laws and advise on all employment matters, including:

• Employment and executive contracts
• Hiring and recruiting practices
• Workplace policies and employee handbooks
• Personnel counseling and advice
• Employee discipline and workplace investigations
• Employee benefits
• Executive compensation
• EEOC charges and employment litigation

Labor

We have significant depth and breadth of experience advising independent schools on all matters arising under the National Labor Relations Act. We build and maintain strong partnerships with union counterparts and guide clients in every aspect of organized labor, including:

• Collective bargaining
• Day-to-day labor relations counseling
• Guidance during union organizing efforts

Student Matters

Independent schools thrive when student rights are respected and responsibilities are clearly defined. We advise schools on policies, procedures and day-to-day concerns that shape the student experience and safeguard the institution’s mission. Our work helps leaders balance student interests with school values while reducing risk and ensuring compliance.

• Enrollment contracts and tuition obligations
• Student rights, conduct and discipline
• Advice and counseling for student concerns
• Review and drafting of student policies and handbooks

Board Governance & Training

We work with schools to strengthen board effectiveness, clarify fiduciary roles, and shape policies that reflect your mission. We also provide tailored board training sessions that align with your school’s culture and priorities, helping boards lead with purpose and clarity.

Campus Construction & Real Estate

Whether you're expanding facilities, managing procurement or seeking zoning approvals, our real estate and construction lawyers help keep your projects moving forward. We also advise on financing, bond issuance and related corporate matters to support long-term planning and capital growth.

Crisis Response

Reputation. Enrollment. Community trust. When a crisis hits, the stakes are high. We help schools manage high-pressure situations — from investigations and sensitive incidents to public controversies — with a clear plan and steady communication. Our goal is to protect your integrity while maintaining optimum transparency and community confidence.

Nonprofit & Tax Counsel

We understand the governance and tax issues that affect independent schools. We provide experienced guidance on 501(c)(3) compliance, executive compensation, fundraising oversight and state and local tax matters. We’re also well-versed in advising independent schools on structuring scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and financial aid programs in ways that reflect the mission and adhere to all legal requirements.

Immigration

Recruiting international faculty and navigating visa requirements is an increasingly complex endeavor. We help schools manage global hiring, comply with immigration laws and develop clear internal procedures to support retention and compliance.

Title IX & Investigations

We offer comprehensive Title IX support, including training on gender equity, disability accommodations, cultural competency and trauma-informed practices. When investigations arise, our ATIXA-certified professionals help protect your students, staff and reputation while maintaining public trust.

Litigation

When disputes escalate, we’re ready. Our litigators represent independent schools in employment matters, contract disputes, EEOC charges, student discipline cases and personal injury claims. We work to resolve disputes effectively and efficiently in a way that reflects your school’s values and protects your mission while minimizing disruption.