Jennifer B. Carroll
Partner, Co-chair K-12 Institutions
Overview
Jennifer Carroll focuses her practice on employment litigation, counseling, and independent school law, and serves as co-chair of the firm’s Education Industry Group. She is known for her practical approach and strong business sense, taking the time to understand each client’s mission, culture, and goals. Jennifer provides advice tailored to the unique realities of each organization—whether she’s guiding a school through a sensitive employment matter or representing a client in court. Her focus is always on delivering clear, effective solutions that protect both people and the organization.
Within the education industry, Jennifer counsels independent schools nationwide on a wide range of issues involving employees, students, parents, trustees, and boards. She serves as a trusted advisor to school leaders, helping them navigate complex legal and practical challenges with confidence and clarity.
Her work includes but is not limited to:
- Representing independent schools before state and local agencies
- Conducting internal investigations and providing guidance on resolution strategies
- Drafting, reviewing, and updating critical documents such as employee handbooks, faculty and staff contracts, enrollment agreements, and head-of-school contracts
- Developing and revising policies involving employees, students, parents, and trustees
- Ensuring compliance with key federal and state laws, including employment, student, and governance regulations
- Counseling schools on student discipline, safety, and welfare matters
- Advising on day-to-day operational and personnel challenges
Jennifer’s deep understanding of how schools operate allows her to offer practical, proactive solutions that align with each institution’s mission and community.
She also works closely with many school accrediting agencies and associations, providing guidance on compliance and governance issues. In addition, she delivers training for school leaders and administration and conducts compliance audits to help institutions reduce risk and strengthen their operations.
Jennifer has extensive experience defending clients in cases involving discrimination, wage and hour, FMLA, whistleblower, and restrictive covenant claims. She handles all phases of litigation—from pre-suit administrative proceedings through trial and appeal—and regularly appears before state and federal courts throughout Florida.
A frequent speaker in the education and HR sectors, Jennifer is regularly invited to present at national and regional conferences on employment law trends, compliance, and risk management. Her engaging style and practical insights draw on her combined experience in litigation and preventative counseling, allowing her to deliver strategies that help participants stay ahead of challenges and stay focused on their core missions.