Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine a principal's knowledge of school law in Kuwait. It further aims to examine the relationship between a principal's knowledge of school law and other variables. Design/methodology/approach: The study employed a quantitative research paradigm. Data for this study, collected via survey, were collected from a sample of 369 public school principals. Findings: Using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, the findings indicated that school principals have only limited knowledge about the legal rights of teachers and students. Furthermore, the results revealed a significant difference in knowledge of school law relative to a principal's gender, school level, years of experience, knowledge source and the number of completed school law training courses. Practical implications: The implications for professional development programs which prepare all school leaders to serve the needs of students' and teachers' rights are included. Originality/value: Studies showed that there is a lack of research regarding a principal's legal knowledge in the Arab countries. As such, this study examined a school principal's knowledge of school law in Kuwait and discussed the associated implications for principal professional development programs.