Since 1989, supreme courts in 12 states have declared their education finance systems unconstitutional. Numerous states are involved in litigation. State courts are presently attempting to close the gap between the best- and worst-financed education systems, focus on disparities in substantive education content, and achieve equity and adequacy…

Presents a summary of guidelines for the use of electronic mail (e-mail) and examines legal issues and existing law governing electronic communication. The Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986 is discussed, lawsuits involving e-mail are described, and the future of e-mail privacy is considered. (11 references) (LRW)

The article examines the ethics and case law associated with the "works for hire" principle concerning institutional or researcher ownership of research data. Institutions are encouraged to clearly state their policies regarding ownership of data. Guidelines for such a policy are presented. (Author/DB)

This review examines factors impacting on substantiation rates for central registries of child abuse and neglect cases. Technical factors were not found to affect substantiation rates, though certain legal factors were somewhat associated with lower substantiation rates. The use of risk assessment models is recommended to improve rates without…

A discussion of the relationship between the campus activities programing office and performers addresses the need for a contract, its essential and optional elements, sponsor and artist rights and responsibilities, ethical considerations, riders, potential conflicts, and the need to check legal issues with college counsel. (MSE)

Using two hypothetical case studies (the arrogant athletic director and the amorous band director), this article explains how superintendents and school boards should deal with problem employee behavior. In both cases, consulting the school attorney and confronting the employee appropriately are essential first steps. (MLH)

Examines moral, legal, and professional arguments for the protection of a library patron's privacy; gives examples of confidentiality challenges; and concludes that librarians should lobby for legal recognition of librarian/patron privilege of confidentiality. Computer technology and privacy are discussed, and the American Library Association…

Discusses ethical issues that relate to law librarianship. Topics addressed include the need to dispense understandable, timely, relevant, complete, and appropriate information; engaging in the actual practice of law; relationships between law librarians and vendors and publishers; and the code of ethics of the American Association of Law…

Investigated variables that predicted success in adolescent inpatient drug treatment program for 94 polydrug abusers. Based prognosis on Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), Millon Adolescent Personality Inventory, Wechsler IQ, and historical variables. Found favorable outcome associated with having fewer legal difficulties, fewer…

Social work educators are responsible for gatekeeping for the profession, including screening out "unsuitable" program applicants. Educators must exercise caution and beware of legal constraints affecting admissions and retention decisions, as exemplified in court cases and the advice of legal experts. Guidelines can assist social work…

This article examines legal effects (e.g., res judicata and collateral estoppel) of various administrative arrangements for the resolution of employment disputes and offers suggestions on how legal representatives of colleges and universities can take advantage of these effects by planning and coordinating defense efforts. (Author/DB)

The relationship statements that many colleges have developed to define relationships with Greek-letter student organizations often impose demanding regulatory schemes on those organizations. From analysis of the statements and student legal rights, it is concluded that institutions have no right to single out the organizations for burdensome…

Analysis of tax treatment of tuition prepayment plans suggests that they expose parents and institutions to serious risks and cannot be expected to provide a useful form of insurance. The only two published rulings subject investors to harsh tax treatment and address only one controversial form of prepayment plan. (MSE)

Acknowledges student need for legal services and notes that, for university that does not have law school and consequently an in-house legal internship operation, question becomes how to deliver effective legal services to students at low cost. Examines problems of providing legal counsel for approximately 11,000 students on university campus with…

Acknowledges reports of illegal and unethical activities among athletic departments associated with institutions of higher education. Poses several solutions for officials to consider. Examines characteristics of student-athletes and reviews student services for athletes. Notes that cooperative efforts between student services professionals and…