Christine V. "Chrissy" Hamiel

Chrissy Hamiel concentrates her practice on assisting school districts, private schools, and charters schools on all aspects of law surrounding education. As the proud daughter of public school educators, Chrissy has always had a passion for education which uniquely enhances her understanding of, and guidance provided to, schools. Chrissy counsels districts on challenging legal matters involving students, educators, staff, administrators and school boards, and has been a leader in providing creative and resourceful solutions to the most challenging issues facing schools today. Chrissy regularly works with school districts on student issues, daily management and operational concerns, pupil records and data privacy, special education and accommodation matters, employment matters, and parent complaints and concerns. She also has considerable experience conducting investigations concerning allegations of workplace misconduct, discrimination and harassment, bullying, and other matters involving staff, parents, and pupils. Chrissy is also uniquely experienced with public records, open meetings, board policy, annual meetings, and other governance issues facing school boards. Chrissy’s background and skill set spans the spectrum of the challenges schools face under the current legal and political landscape.

Chrissy’s experience with student matters includes Title IX, FERPA, IDEA, student discipline and expulsions, special education, constitutional rights, and student and athletic codes of conduct. In addition, she regularly advises school districts and other local government entities on employee matters arising under the wage and hour and employment discrimination laws. Chrissy’s practice includes service and vendor contracting, as well as assisting clients with strategically managing crisis situations and communications.

Chrissy’s practice transcends schools and extends to other governmental entities, including counties, municipalities, and quasi-governmental entities. Chrissy’s litigation practice extends to all levels of the state court system, the federal courts, and administrative bodies. She is also a frequent lecturer and contributor of materials to WASBO, WASB, and other school and government-related organizations.