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Overview

Pretzel & Stouffer is dedicated to helping educational and religious organizations navigate the expanse of laws, regulations and critical issues constantly affecting such institutions.

As a premier trial firm, we are frequently retained to act as lead defense counsel for schools and religious organizations in complex, high-profile litigation. Such cases deal with general liability, premises liability, personal injury, sexual abuse and harassment, labor and employment, Title VII and wage and hour claim as well as civil rights and disability rights concerning members and students.

We are also frequently asked by such clients to assist with risk management and claim prevention—a task in which we take great care and pride. Our services in this area also extend to advising educational institutions in connection with due process hearings under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), specifically pertaining to the sufficiency of Individualized Educational Programs (IEPs).

In our advocacy, we make every effort to—and our clients trust that we will—avoid disruption of student, educator, administrator and community activities. When and where appropriate, we seek alternative dispute resolution to discreetly obtain favorable and confidential outcomes.

Since we represent many private schools, churches, and religious organizations, we are acutely aware of each organization’s purpose and objective. So much so that we tailor our approach to safeguarding that mission and preserve a positive and productive environment for students and members during a claim or lawsuit.

Our clients have included: charter schools (K–12); higher education institutions (public and private); religiously affiliated institutions; school administrators; schools and school districts (K–12); and teachers.

We understand the delicate issues facing schools and religious organizations, and our team is devoted to assisting these institutions with their litigation and risk management needs.

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Related News & Results

Federal Court Dismisses Civil Rights Claims Brought Against Religious Institution

David M. Bennett and Donald Patrick Eckler, obtained a dismissal with prejudice as to all civil rights claims and pendent state law claims filed against a Chicagoland religious institution. Plaintiffs’ Complaint alleged violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 1981, and further alleged pendent state law claims for negligent supervision and ...

February 2014 | Firm News