Higher Education

Higher education and research institutions face a unique and complex set of legal challenges, from campus safety and student welfare to employment relations, regulatory investigations, and governance matters. At One Legal Square, our interdisciplinary team provides practical, sector-specific legal advice tailored to the distinct needs and operational realities of universities, colleges, and research organisations.

Our experienced lawyers work closely with governing bodies, senior management teams, compliance officers, and in-house counsel to deliver clear, commercially focused solutions across a broad range of areas, including:

• Corporate governance, board restructuring, and senior leadership transitions
• Crisis management, reputation protection, and sensitive internal investigations
• Employment law, staff relations, and equality & diversity compliance
• Regulatory investigations, compliance with education standards, and student welfare matters
• Investment management, endowment strategies, and financial governance
• Real estate, campus development, energy, and infrastructure projects
• Intellectual property, research collaborations, and technology transfer
• Tax-exempt status, charitable governance, and planned giving
• Pensions, executive remuneration, and HR advisory

We understand the unique pressures faced by higher education institutions — balancing academic mission, financial sustainability, stakeholder expectations, and an increasingly regulated environment. Our team acts as trusted advisors, providing strategic counsel that supports long-term institutional goals while managing legal and reputational risk.

For more information on how we can support your higher education or research institution, or to discuss your specific requirements, reach out to us here.