Education Law

We are certainly in a humble and thankful mood given our recent victory in court, Mrs. Carper. We have nothing but great things to say about you and the staff at Goodall & Carper. In fact, a Marine JAG friend of mine has already asked if I would recommend your office for those that inquire to which I responded with a resounding "YES."
P.Z.

If I could rate my experience with Brittany Carper higher than 5 stars, I would. She is, by far, the most intelligent and able attorney in the greater Fredericksburg, Stafford, and Spotsylvania region. I cannot say enough about her constant support and professionalism. If you place any legal situation in her hands, she will be with you every step of the way. Thank God for her constant support, and patience, and care!
Facebook Review

This was my first experience working with an attorney. I was on a sharp learning curve, but I must say that Mrs. Carper was patient and forthright when necessary when it came to what was expected and required of me.
A.C.

Every student deserves equal access to a quality education in a safe learning environment. Unfortunately, some students experience conflict with their principals, school staff, administrative offices or school boards that negatively impacts their school performance and overall ability to succeed. As parents, we want to advocate for our children’s rights, but standing up against school personnel, universities or entire school boards can be overwhelming.

Our education law attorneys have experience advocating for the best interest of elementary, middle and high school students in the City of Fredericksburg, Stafford County, Spotsylvania County and surrounding counties, as well as college and university students. We have helped students of all ages achieve positive legal outcomes for issues related to school discipline disputes, suspensions, expulsions, discrimination, FERPA violations, student rights and other education-related matters.

Suspensions or Expulsion

Disputes related to school discipline can have a lasting impact on a student’s academic career. If consequences escalate to the level of in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension or expulsion, these negative marks can follow students on their academic record for years. Disciplinary action against you or your child should not be taken lightly. Contact an education law attorney to advise on appropriate actions to take in your situation.

Special Education and IEPs (Individualized Education Programs)

Coordinating your child’s special education services with their school can be a complex process. There are a number of moving parts and many extra steps that don’t apply for general education students. Our attorneys have advocated for students with disabilities across many stages of the special education process from initial eligibility and placement decisions to IEP meetings. We also have experience navigating behavioral issues, FBA/BIP implementation, and transportation accommodations.

Discrimination

Discrimination should be the last thing someone has to worry about when they’re pursing their education. Sadly, this is not the case for many Virginia students that experience discrimination on the basis of sex, religion, and/or disability every year. Our law firm values diversity and will advocate for every individual’s right to be themselves at their school, college or university.

Student Rights and Free Speech

As an American citizen, your First Amendment rights still apply when you’re in a school, college or university. In 1969, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of free speech for students and teachers in Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District, and this ruling is still effective today.

We will advocate for student rights and free speech that align with Virginia law and legal precedent. If you believe you or your child’s First Amendment rights have been infringed upon by a school or school personnel, contact one of our experienced education law attorneys today to discuss your case.

Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

FERPA is a federal law that protects student academic records. Parents are also granted access and can request corrections of incorrect or misleading information in the education record. These rights are transferred to the student once they turn 18 years old.

The privacy of you or your child’s education record should be a priority. Protecting your privacy can become challenging if government agencies, courts, medical offices or other formal parties request access to you or your child’s education record. Our education attorneys can help navigate these requests to ensure your records are protected.