Each state has its own education system, and as a result, laws regarding the management of schools, teachers, and funding for public schools vary among different states. However, all American public education systems are overseen by the federal government through the U.S. Department of Education.

Lawyers in education law can work for local school districts where they deal with issues such as school governance, student records, collective bargaining and student discipline. Many lawyers who work in nonprofits and advocacy groups either represent children and families or focus on broader policy issues relating to educational reform via legislative and advocacy work.

What to do if you are interested in Education Law?

Georgetown Law Courses

Education: Civil rights and Civil Liberties
Education Law: School Reform
Race and American Law

Georgetown Law Clinics

Federal Legislation Clinic
Juvenile Justice Clinic
Street Law Clinic

Helpful Education Law Resources

  • American Bar Center on Children and the Law provides a sampling of legal issues related to children and education.
  • HG.org: Education provides a basic overview of the practice area as well as useful links to educational resources and selected employers.
  • Harvard Education Law Guide describes different practice areas within education law, sample employers broken down by regions within the U.S., and narratives of alumni and their career paths.
  • National School Boards Association provides information on a range of school law issues. See especially the School Law Careers page.
  • Public Education Network is a national association of individuals working to advance public school reform in nationwide low-income communities.

Representative Employers