E.A. Gjelten
Legal Editor
Why Am I Considered Disabled for Workers’ Comp but Not for Social Security?
Workers’ comp laws and Social Security use different standards and definitions for “disability.” ... READ MORE
“Pay-to-Play” Fees: Is It Legal to Charge for School Activities?
States have different rules on whether public schools are allowed to charge fees for participating in school sports and other extracurricular activities. ... READ MORE
What Happens to Truants and Their Parents in California?
Learn when California students are considered truants, what services are available to help, and the legal penalties if kids keep skipping school. ... READ MORE
What Are the Consequences of Cheating and Plagiarism at School?
Cheating on tests and copying on school papers can lead to serious repercussions, from failing grades or suspensions to college rejections and loss of scholarships. ... READ MORE
Illegal Hazing: Crimes and Civil Lawsuits
Hazing may lead to school discipline, criminal charges, or personal injury lawsuits. Learn when hazing is a crime and when victims may sue fraternities, sports teams, or schools that don’t try to stop dangerous hazing. ... READ MORE
Your Child’s School Record: What’s In It, How to Get It, and How to Change It
Federal law protects the privacy of school records. Learn how to access your child's—or your own—school record, who else can see it, and how to ask schools to change inaccurate information. ... READ MORE
Can I Sue the School for a Teacher's Abuse or Harassment of My Child?
Who’s legally responsible when coaches or teachers bully, abuse, or discriminate against students? ... READ MORE
School Activities: Permission Slips and Release Forms
Learn about the potential consequences of signing a waiver that gives up your right to sue the school if your child is hurt during field trips or after-school activities. ... READ MORE
Laws Prohibiting Discrimination in Public Schools
Several federal and state laws outlaw discrimination in schools based on ethnicity, disability, and sex—and parents may sue when schools violate those laws. ... READ MORE
Graduation Day: When May Schools Keep Graduates Away From Commencement?
Schools may prevent students from participating in graduation ceremonies even if they’re eligible to receive a diploma. And some students may “walk” at commencement before they’ve met all the graduation requirements. ... READ MORE