Back-to-School Legal Readiness:

A Guide for Families from O’Connell and Aronowitz

As families across New York prepare for a new school year – from kindergarten drop-offs to college move-ins, there is more to consider than backpacks and class schedules. Legal readiness is just as important as academic readiness, especially in today’s world where school, custody, and healthcare issues can evolve quickly and unpredictably.

At O’Connell and Aronowitz, we are here to ensure your family is legally prepared for the upcoming school year with – whatever stage your child is in.

– For Families with Young Children –

Custody Agreements & Co-Parenting Plans:

Back-to-school season often reveals friction points in custody arrangements. Make sure:

• • Your custody and visitation schedule aligns with the school calendar, extracurriculars, and transportation needs.
  • You have clarity on who makes decisions about school enrollment, parent-teacher meetings, and medical care.
  • Your agreement is specific about holidays, snow days, and emergency contact procedures.

Tip: If your agreement hasn’t been updated in a few years, now is a good time to consult with a family law attorney.

Special Education and IEP Advocacy:

If your child has a disability or learning difference:

• • Ensure their Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is up-to-date and being followed.

Know your rights under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

• • If you’re experiencing delays or disagreements with the school district you can:
  • Request free dispute-resolution through mediation or an impartial due-process hearing via the NYSED Office of Special Education (see “Mediation and Dispute Resolution” under Parent Resources)
  • Connect with a Parent Training & Information (PTI) Center in your area
  • Use NYS Education Department online toolkits and guides.

Medical and Emergency Authorization:

Does the school have:

• • Updated emergency contact info?
  • Authorization for someone (like a grandparent or caregiver) to pick up your child?
  • Allergy and medication instructions?
  • If your child sees multiple guardians, consider a medical consent form to avoid delays during emergencies.

School Discipline and Students’ Rights:

Children have rights – even at school.

Be aware of what’s in the school’s Code of Conduct.

• • If your child is facing suspension or disciplinary action, know that due process must be followed.
  • Our Student Defenders team can support families navigating bullying, Title IX issues, or discriminatory treatment.

–  For Parents of High School Students –

Driver’s Licenses and Liability

Once your teen starts driving:

• • Review your auto insurance coverage and confirm your teen is listed.
  • Understand parental liability in New York if your teen causes damage or injury.

Part-Time Jobs and Employment Rights

Teens working during the school year have legal protections:

• • Make sure employers follow minor labor laws.
  • Teens injured on the job may be entitled to workers’ comp – don’t let their age prevent a valid claim.

Juvenile Law: Mistakes and Misunderstandings

If your teen is involved in an incident – whether on social media, with friends, or at school – early legal advice is key.

• • Know the difference between school discipline and legal consequences
  • We handle juvenile defense and can intervene discreetly to protect your teen’s future.

– For College Students and Their Families –

FERPA and Parent Communication

Once your child turns 18 or enters college, you may lose access to:

• • Grades
  • Medical records
  • Disciplinary actions

Solution: Have your child sign a FERPA waiver and HIPAA release so you can remain informed in emergencies.

Power of Attorney & Health Care Proxy

Every college student should have these two documents:

• • A Power of Attorney, so someone can handle financial matters or emergencies.
  • A Health Care Proxy, to ensure someone can make medical decisions if they’re unable to.

Even if your child is healthy, these forms offer peace of mind during emergencies, especially if they’re studying out of state.

Housing and Lease Agreements

Is your child renting off-campus?

• • Make sure they understand lease terms, roommate responsibilities, and their rights as a tenant.

Encourage your child to review the lease with a trusted adult and consult free resources offered by their college’s student affairs or legal aid office, which often provide lease education and tenant support.

Campus Conduct & Title IX

If your student faces a disciplinary hearing or Title IX investigation, it can affect their academic standing and future.

• • Our Student Defenders team provides counsel to students involved in investigations or hearings to ensure due process is upheld.

–  Why Legal Readiness Matters –

Back-to-school season is a fresh start- but it also opens the door to unexpected issues. Whether you are navigating co-parenting, preparing your student for independence, or protecting your family’s rights, O’Connell and Aronowitz are here to help.

📞(518) 462-5601
📍 Offices in Albany and Saratoga
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