Charter Schools

Preparing Schools for the Real World

Charter schools prepare students for life beyond the classroom. But just as students need structure and support to succeed, schools themselves need a strong foundation. Behind every classroom is a business entity that must comply with Florida laws, manage contracts, and navigate complex governance rules.

What happens if your charter application is incomplete, your board isn’t properly structured, or your vendor agreements don’t protect the school’s interests? The risks are serious: denied applications, loss of funding, staff disputes, or even challenges to your right to operate.

At R|A Law, our charter school lawyers focus on the legal and operational framework so you can stay focused on education. We provide practical legal guidance that helps your school — like your students — prepare for the real world.

Who We Help

We represent charter schools and governing boards across Florida at every stage of development, from drafting initial applications to advising established schools on accountability, policy development, and dispute resolution. Whether you’re building a foundation or maintaining momentum, our charter school lawyers deliver the support you need.

Our Charter School Legal Services

Charter School Applications: Guidance through the application process, including drafting, reviewing, and submitting applications that meet state standards and avoid costly rejections.

Governance Structuring: Helping boards create bylaws, policies, and decision-making structures that comply with Florida statutes and protect funding.

Contract Drafting & Review: Drafting and reviewing employment contracts, vendor agreements, and service provider contracts to ensure schools are protected.

Charter Renewal & Accountability: Assisting schools in preparing renewal applications, addressing accountability measures, and maintaining compliance with ongoing performance standards.

Policy Development: Advising boards and administrators on policies that address discipline, staffing, enrollment, and regulatory requirements.

Vendor Contracts: Reviewing and negotiating contracts with third-party providers, including facility management, curriculum vendors, and food service companies.

Contract Disputes: Representing schools in disputes with staff, vendors, or governing authorities to safeguard the school’s ability to operate.

Why Real-World Legal Counsel Matters for Charter Schools in Florida

Running a charter school is about more than academics — it’s about operating a regulated business entity. Without the guidance of an experienced charter school lawyer, schools risk:

• Applications being rejected over technical errors
• Loss of funding for failing compliance audits
• Unenforceable contracts with staff or vendors
• Costly disputes escalating into litigation

At R|A Law, our attorneys focus on solutions that work in practice. We ensure your school’s policies, contracts, and governance structures are not only compliant but also functional in the real world.

How Our Lawyers Work With Charter Schools

1. Consultation – A charter school attorney from our team meets with you to understand your school’s mission, needs, and challenges.
2. Strategic Plan – We create a tailored legal roadmap addressing compliance, governance, and contracts.
3. Ongoing Counsel – As your school grows, we remain available to guide and protect your operations.

Why Charter Schools Choose R|A Law

Our charter school practice is led by attorney Charlie Barnett, Of Counsel, who brings decades of experience in education law, franchise law, and organizational governance. Together with the R|A Law team, he helps charter schools across Florida operate smoothly, maintain compliance, and focus on their mission of education.

Ready to Build a Stronger Foundation for Your School?

Just as you prepare your students for success in the real world, R|A Law prepares your school as a business entity. From applications and compliance to contracts and disputes, our charter school attorneys deliver the legal structure and support your school needs to thrive.