Committed Education Attorneys Advocating for Teachers and Students
Our experienced education attorneys focus on the unique legal matters that occur in academia. We are committed to protecting the rights of students, parents, and education professionals throughout Pennsylvania, in public, private, and charter schools. Whether you are a parent who needs help getting their student’s needs met, a student who needs an advocate in higher education, or a professional educator who requires assistance preserving their license and professional reputation, our Pennsylvania education lawyer is prepared to fight for your interests and rights.
We offer knowledgeable, strategic legal representation tailored to the unique challenges of education law. Our focus is on the individual, not the institution, and we take pride in our decades of successful outcomes for students and families like yours. For more than thirty years, we have been addressing the challenges that arise in academic settings. We invite you to contact us today for a complimentary discovery call.
Legal Representation for Pennsylvania Students and Families
Many students and families often find themselves overwhelmed when negotiating a successful resolution to academic challenges. Our attorneys help make sure that your voice is heard, your concerns are taken seriously, and your student receives the best possible education. We advocate for students in many matters, ranging from disciplinary hearings to Title IX investigations.
Our attorneys defend students in institutions of higher learning, including colleges, universities, trade schools, and graduate schools, if they are facing allegations of criminal activity, including DUI/ DWAI, minor-in-possession, sexual misconduct, and other violations of the school code of conduct. This also includes representation for those accused of plagiarism or other academic integrity violations.
We believe in fair treatment and equality for all. Our attorneys can initiate Title IX investigations, including cases involving sexual harassment, assault, or gender-based discrimination, to ensure that every student can focus on their education free of harassment and unfair treatment.
For younger students, we help parents ensure teacher and school compliance with their child’s IEP and address necessary accommodations for students with special needs and disabilities. We also work to eliminate discrimination in the classroom, protecting your child in claims of exclusion from extracurricular activities due to discriminatory practices.
Our strategic counsel is grounded in our attorneys’ decades of combined experience in education law. We work closely with you to fully understand the situation, develop an appropriate course of action, and preserve access to the best possible education.
Navigating Mental Health and Disability Accommodations in Schools
A growing number of Pennsylvania students struggle with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and learning disabilities. These challenges often affect academic performance, behavior, and social participation. Unfortunately, many students are left without appropriate accommodations or are subjected to unfair disciplinary actions because their needs are misunderstood or minimized.
At K Altman Law, we help families obtain proper evaluations, advocate during IEP or 504 Plan meetings, and challenge decisions that deny students the support they’re legally entitled to under federal laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. When schools fall short of their obligations, we hold them accountable to ensure that each child receives an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Addressing Bullying, Harassment, and School Safety Concerns
No student should fear going to school. Yet, bullying and harassment remain widespread problems across Pennsylvania schools. Whether the mistreatment is based on race, gender identity, religion, disability, or another protected status, our attorneys take immediate action to protect the affected student and ensure the school addresses the problem appropriately.
We represent students who have been victims of physical, verbal, and cyberbullying and pursue legal action when schools fail to act. Our firm also supports students who have been unfairly accused of bullying, ensuring their rights are preserved during disciplinary investigations and that the punishment is proportionate and legally sound.
In severe cases, we collaborate with criminal attorneys and law enforcement when school violence, threats, or neglect of student safety rise to a level requiring formal intervention. Your child’s physical and emotional safety is our top priority.
Fighting Unfair Disciplinary Actions and Expulsions
Students facing suspension, expulsion, or other disciplinary measures often find themselves navigating complex administrative procedures without a clear understanding of their rights. Schools are legally required to provide due process—but many students and families are unaware of what that entails.
Our education lawyers represent students in disciplinary hearings and appeal proceedings, ensuring the school complies with state and federal laws. Whether the issue involves alleged drug use, academic dishonesty, inappropriate behavior, or classroom disruptions, we work to prevent unnecessary or excessive punishments that could derail a student’s educational future.
In higher education settings, disciplinary processes can be even more intimidating, with limited transparency and informal internal procedures. We level the playing field by providing strategic defense and advocating for a fair, balanced resolution.
Helping Students Access Equal Opportunities
We also represent students who have been denied equal access to academic or extracurricular programs. Discrimination can manifest in subtle but harmful ways—such as denial of entry into honors classes, leadership opportunities, or athletic teams based on race, gender, disability, or economic background. These denials can have long-term effects on a student’s confidence and future opportunities.
We are committed to ensuring every Pennsylvania student has the opportunity to reach their full academic and personal potential. Whether this means challenging admission decisions, advocating for placement in advanced programs, or seeking redress for exclusionary policies, our legal team is ready to fight for fairness and equity.
Types of Education Cases We Can Assist With
Our Pennsylvania education lawyer has a wealth of experience representing students, faculty, and families across a wide range of education-related legal matters. Whether someone is facing disciplinary action, discrimination, or academic accusations, we provide legal guidance with a clear understanding of how school policies and federal laws affect individual rights. Below are some of the types of cases we frequently assist with.
Our founder, Attorney Keith Altman, has witnessed countless students and individuals struggling against powerful institutions without the support that they need and deserve, and he is dedicated to providing passionate and dedicated representation for all of your legal needs. If you believe that you are in need of assistance with an education-related case, contact K Altman Law today.
Student Defense
We handle student conduct matters at both K–12 and higher education institutions. From accusations of academic dishonesty to behavioral violations, our role is to help protect a student’s educational future. Whether a student is facing suspension, expulsion, or formal conduct hearings, we work to preserve due process and fight for fair treatment in pursuit of the best possible outcome for you or your child.
Online Cheating
Remote learning has led to a rise in allegations of academic misconduct related to online exams, plagiarism detection software, and unauthorized collaboration. These cases often move quickly and carry serious penalties. We review institutional procedures for errors, push back against assumptions, and advocate for balanced outcomes based on the facts and a fair outcome.
Civil Rights
We represent individuals whose civil rights may have been violated in an educational setting. This includes issues involving discrimination based on race, religion, gender, disability, or national origin. When policies or actions result in unequal access or unfair treatment, our Pennsylvania education lawyer pursues justice through legal and institutional channels.
Special Education
Students with disabilities have legal protections under federal and state law, including access to appropriate educational support and services. We assist families who are having difficulty securing IEPs, dealing with inappropriate placements, or addressing violations of educational plans. Our work helps support the academic and personal success of students who require accommodations.
Title IX
Our Pennsylvania education lawyer handles cases involving sexual harassment, assault, and gender-based discrimination under Title IX. These cases involve sensitive facts and significant consequences for all involved. We represent both complainants and respondents in investigations, hearings, and appeals. Our goal is to support our clients’ rights and help them move forward without lasting damage to their educational or professional future.
Steps in Filing a Title IX Complaint
Filing a Title IX complaint can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves sensitive circumstances and your rights as a student. Our experienced Pennsylvania education lawyer guides students and families through each part of this process so they can stand up for their rights and move forward with confidence. If you’re considering filing a Title IX complaint, knowing what to expect can help you take the right first steps. With over a decade of legal experience, you can trust K Altman Law to guide you through this process with confidence and clarity.
Gather All Information
Start by collecting all records, messages, and notes that support your complaint. This might include emails, text messages, screenshots, photos, or witness statements. Being organized with your evidence makes it easier to present a clear account of what happened. In your consultation, our attorney can help you understand what evidence is important for your case.
Meet With Your School’s Title IX Coordinator
Every school that accepts federal funding must have a Title IX coordinator. This person is responsible for handling complaints and making sure the school follows federal rules. You’ll need to meet with this coordinator to share what happened and explain how you’d like the situation addressed.
File a Written Complaint
Once you’ve spoken with the coordinator, the next step is putting your complaint in writing. This statement should include key details about what happened, when it occurred, who was involved, and how it has affected you. Our Pennsylvania education lawyer can help make sure your written statement is clear and strong.
Cooperate With the Investigation
After your written complaint is filed, the school is required to investigate. This can include interviews, reviewing documents, and talking with witnesses. During this stage, it’s important to respond to any requests for information and participate fully. Our dedicated education lawyer can help you prepare for interviews or hearings and make sure your rights are respected.
Review the Findings and Next Steps
When the investigation is done, the school will share its findings and any steps they plan to take. This could include disciplinary action against the accused, changes to your class schedule, or other measures to protect you. If you disagree with the outcome, you may have a chance to appeal.
Take Further Action if Needed
If you feel your school did not handle your complaint fairly or did not follow Title IX rules, you may have other options. This can include filing a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights or taking legal action. Our Pennsylvania education lawyer helps our clients weigh all available choices if they’re not satisfied with the result.
If you or your child needs support filing a Title IX complaint or handling any other school matter, our team is ready to help. The landscape around Title IX law and regulations is constantly changing, and our team has the professional knowledge and experience necessary to help you with your complaint. Contact K Altman Law today.
Title VII
When educators or school employees experience workplace discrimination or harassment, Title VII protections may apply. We help faculty and staff challenge unlawful employment practices such as bias in hiring, retaliation, or hostile work environments. These cases may involve public schools, private institutions, or universities.
Education law covers a wide range of situations that can deeply affect a person’s academic and career path. Our team brings professional legal focus and care to every case. If you’re facing a challenge in an academic setting, we’re ready to help. Contact K Altman Law to learn how we can work with you toward a fair outcome.
Legal Support for Educators and Academic Professionals
Not only does our skilled Pennsylvania education lawyer represent students and families, but we also advocate for educators, administrators, and academic professionals facing legal challenges in the workplace. We swiftly and effectively resolve matters involving employment disputes, contract concerns, and professional conduct allegations, working within school policy and state law to ensure fair treatment.
Our attorneys demand that you be treated with respect and dignity if you are facing allegations or complaints. We understand the serious implications these matters have on your career and reputation. It’s our job to protect you when you cannot do it alone.
When you need a team of experienced legal professionals to resolve your educational law matter, look no further than K Altman Law. Our Pennsylvania education lawyer listens to your concerns, explains your options under the law, and negotiates a fair resolution to even the most complicated matters. We invite you to contact us today for a professional consultation.
