Paul T. O'Neill

Paul O'Neill is one of the nation's leading education law attorneys, advising charter schools, independent schools, charter management organizations, education management organizations, nonprofits, foundations, and other education sector clients on the legal, regulatory, and governance issues that shape educational institutions. Drawing experience across private practice, government, in-house leadership, and academia, he provides practical, strategic counsel that helps clients navigate complex legal challenges while advancing their organizational missions.

Paul regularly counsels clients on the full range of legal issues facing educational institutions. This includes legal issues impacting school operations and management, investigations, special education, and student discipline, as well as board governance, charter school authorizing, program replication, merger and expansion. He is particularly recognized for his work involving students with disabilities and advises schools on navigating federal and state special education laws while developing policies and practices that support both compliance and positive educational outcomes. He also works closely with boards and leadership teams on governance matters, helping organizations make informed decisions in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

In addition to his legal practice, Paul is a respected educator and thought leader in education law and policy. For more than 25 years he has served on the adjunct faculty of Columbia University's Teachers College, where he teaches courses including Designing Charter Schools, Independent School Law, and Special Education Law & Policy. He is also the author of several books and numerous articles and chapters on education law and policy and is a frequent speaker on issues affecting schools, students, and education leaders. His scholarship and teaching reflect a longstanding commitment to improving educational opportunity through sound governance, thoughtful legal counsel, and effective institutional leadership.

Representative Experience

• Helps education organizations build strong governance structures, manage legal risk, and support long-term institutional success.
• Advises charter schools and other education sector clients on day-to-day operational issues as well as complex strategic initiatives.
• Works closely with boards, school leaders, and nonprofit organizations to develop practical, legally sound solutions to governance and compliance challenges.
• Provides deep experience in special education, student discipline, charter school authorizing, school replication, expansion, merger and closure.