Education is a fundamental right, but too often students and families face discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment that denies them equal access to learning. Our Albuquerque education law team is committed to defending civil rights in schools, colleges, and universities across New Mexico.
Protecting Students’ Civil Rights
Students have the right to learn in a safe, inclusive, and discrimination-free environment. We represent children, parents, and educators when those rights are violated by school districts, administrators, or higher education institutions.
Our team handles cases involving:
- Discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or religion
- Harassment and bullying that create hostile educational environments
- Retaliation for speaking up or filing complaints
- First Amendment rights, including freedom of speech and religious expression
Title IX & Gender Discrimination Representation
Title IX protects students and employees from sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment or assault, unequal athletic opportunities, and biased disciplinary action.
We provide skilled representation for:
- Students facing Title IX investigations or disciplinary hearings
- Victims of sexual harassment or assault seeking justice and safety measures
- Appeals of wrongful findings or sanctions
- Guidance for schools to implement compliant Title IX policies
Special Education Civil Rights (IDEA & Section 504)
Children with disabilities are entitled to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) under federal law. We fight to ensure school districts deliver services and accommodations required under:
- IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) – securing appropriate IEPs, services, and placement
- Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act – ensuring equal access and reasonable accommodations
- Due process hearings and appeals – challenging denials or failures to implement services
Student Discipline & Due Process
Civil rights violations often occur when students are suspended, expelled, or disciplined without fair procedures. We advocate for:
- Fair hearings before suspension or expulsion
- Protection against disproportionate discipline based on race, disability, or other protected status
- Expungement of unfair records to safeguard future opportunities
Our Approach: Advocacy with Impact
- Immediate Case Review – We assess potential rights violations quickly to prevent further harm.
- Strategic Legal Planning – Crafting a targeted approach tailored to your case.
- Aggressive Representation – Advocating at administrative hearings, negotiations, and in court when needed.
- Ongoing Support – Working toward systemic changes when patterns of discrimination emerge.
Why Choose Us
- Deep Knowledge of Federal & State Law – IDEA, Section 504, Title IX, and constitutional protections
- Local Experience – Familiarity with Albuquerque Public Schools, New Mexico state agencies, and university systems
- Client-Centered Advocacy – Clear communication and collaborative decision-making
- Proven Track Record – Favorable outcomes in complex civil rights disputes
Take Action Today
If your child’s civil rights have been violated or you are facing a Title IX investigation, you do not have to face the system alone.
Call Collins & Collins, P.C., today to schedule a confidential consultation with an Albuquerque civil rights and education attorney. Protect your rights. Protect your future.
