We understand the critical role of a board in representing and serving the local community, defining institutional goals and priorities, and selecting and evaluating top administrators to lead and manage the institution. In addition to being approved by the Illinois State Board of Education to conduct school board member trainings, many Robbins Schwartz attorneys provide other professional development opportunities for both school boards and other clients on a variety of topics.

Our attorneys also regularly advise clients on other legal requirements and best practices related to effective governance and board communications, including individual board member duties, conflicts of interest, gift ban restrictions, prohibited political activity, and various statutory frameworks that apply to important board decisions. Robbins Schwartz attorneys often assist both public and private institutions with developing board policies that express institutional priorities clearly while fulfilling legal requirements and maintaining appropriate flexibility. During times of crisis, we provide advice and assistance on adequately informing the public and the media and maintaining relationships with professionals trained in crafting and disseminating such information. With a broad base of experience in matters affecting educational institutions and local governments in particular, our firm is well-situated to identify legal issues that boards encounter in their governance role.