Empowering You with Essential Legal Knowledge

At Trygstad, Schwab & Trygstad, we believe informed clients are empowered clients. Our resources provide valuable information about your rights and the legal processes relevant to educators, employees, and students. Explore our articles to better understand the protections and procedures that may impact your case.

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Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

We provide insights to help educators, students, and employees navigate the complex legal landscape. Browse through our resource articles below:

  • Primary/Secondary Educators - Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

    Understand your legal protections and duties as an educator in California's school system.

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  • Disability Rights and Your Employment - Know How to Protect Yourself

    Learn how to safeguard your employment rights and ensure fair treatment under the law.

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  • Making a Claim for Damages or Injury Against a Public Entity Under the California Tort Claims Act

    Familiarize yourself with the procedures for seeking compensation when harmed by a public entity.

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  • California Whistleblower Protection Rights

    Discover the laws that protect you when reporting misconduct in the workplace.

    Learn More

  • College Students with Disabilities

    Understand the legal accommodations and rights available to students with disabilities in higher education.

    Learn More

In the News

Instructor Romeo Carey reinstated by BHUSD

March 9, 2025
Beverly Hills High School journalism teacher Romeo Carey said he signed an agreement on March 5 with the Beverly Hills Unified School District to return to the school following three months of administrative leave. Carey was placed on paid leave on Dec. 1 for reasons that were not disclosed by the school district. However, community members characterized it as an act of retaliation and censorship.

Can A University Require That A Student Take A Leave Of Absence For Mental Health Reasons?

March 4, 2025
A class action lawsuit against Stanford is accusing the university of discriminating against students with mental health problems by forcing them into taking leaves of absence. According to the New York Times, this is part of a larger pushback from students against leave of absence policies, which they can jeopardize a student’s academic career, further damage their mental health and might prevent a student from seeking help in the first place. A university can ask a student to leave if they present a harm to others, but it’s less clear what a university can or should do if the student might harm themselves. In some cases, a leave of absence is an opportunity for a student to get away from the stressors of school and might be the best option. But how does a university or a counselor make that call? Should it ever be mandatory? In what ways should a school accommodate and help students with mental health issues on campus?

OT issues found at L.A. Unified

March 4, 2025
Details of the mishandled extra pay emerged in school district and court documents that were part of a harassment and discrimination lawsuit the school system settled for $1.65 million on May 12. The suit was filed by former lead operations coordinator Karen Brown, who helped oversee nonacademic matters for about 150 schools in Local District West.  Her litigation focused mainly on harassment and discrimination claims, but she also alleged retaliation against her for raising questions to her superiors about payment practices. In the settlement, the district admitted no wrongdoing in its treatment of Brown.
Testimonials

See what our clients say.

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    I hired Shanon Trygstad for a case that the school district's union was unable to settle for months. The case wasn't complicated to settle but the union's incompetency was extremely frustrating. My case was dragged on for months by the union and the CTA representative. Then, my co worker recommended Shanon Trygstad of Trygstad, Schwab & Trygstad. Shanon was a life saver. Her expertise and experience in education law was impressIve. My case with HR was resolved in a single letter sent by Shanon. She was professional and returned my emails in a timely manner. On top of everything, her fee was reasonably charged. I highly recommend hiring Shanon. she is an expert on work accommodations in educational settings.

    Megan S.

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    Daniel Kolodziej and the staff of Trygstad, Schwab & Trygstad represented me in my case that just closed about a month ago. They have a strong reputation among school district employees about defending their rights and they have battled it out with many large school districts. I appreciated that Daniel and I were able to meet within a few hours of leaving a message. I was an unrepresented director and Daniel knew how to navigate the various public sector HR processes to make sure that my rights were protected at every stage. Daniel listened to my concerns and addressed all of them throughout my case, which really impressed me because other attorneys would discourage me from asking about those things. He called me as soon as he had the information on offers or any developments and I always felt up-to-date. Daniel's knowledge about the public sector employment law is impressive and he took time to explain what he found from research and showed examples from the Education Code or case law when he needed to. I was really worried about the cost, but they are up front about their fee structure, so I knew what was coming and the final bill didn't feel like they added surprising fees or made-up time to add billable hours. The support staff were also professional in handling my case and I felt like the most important client they had. It was a really reassuring experience at a time when I needed a confident and credible attorney. I'm glad that they were on my side and I would highly recommend them.

    Kenneth K.

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    For several weeks I searched for an attorney with expertise in education law. I came across the website for Trygstad, Schwab & Trygstad, and was immediately offered an appointment for a complimentary consultation. During my consultation with Ms. Shanon Trygstad, I was treated very professionally. I was offered advice, support, and multiple routes that might be appropriate to pursue with my particular situation. I immediately trusted Ms. Trygstad, and after the consultation I felt confident proceeding with retaining her services. Throughout the process, I felt Ms. Trygstad worked quickly and prioritized the very tight timeline on my case. I was kept up to date throughout the process, and my phone calls and emails were all answered within 24 hours. I could not have asked for better support throughout this legal process, and I'm so grateful to have found this practice. Our family will be retaining this office for future needs as well. I highly recommend Ms. Shanon Trygstad.

    Alison G.

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    If 10-star reviews were possible, I would give Lawrence 11-stars. Lawrence, I will always be grateful to the Trygstad law firm. Whenever I had a legal issue, Lawrence and his team were there to listen, fight, and really helped me out when I needed them most. Consultations were free with my teacher discount. He or a member of his legal staff ALWAYS made themselves available. Regardless of the discount, the team at Trygstad Schwab are good at what they do and following through on their promises. What I liked most was Lawrence's experience. He is so experienced that he was able to tell me more or less what was going to happen. Thank you Trygstad, Schwab, and Trygstad. *Experienced *Always followed through *Won the case

    Alex A.

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    Mr. Kolodziej handled a matter for me with care, insight, professionalism and intelligence. After exploring my case with a local attorney in the Coachella Valley I was fortunate to get a referral to Mr. Kolodziej. The local lawyer felt that, although I had a good case, there was not enough money in it for them! Sometimes, it is not about the money. He took my case and was able to secure a resolution that provided both of us with "enough money." Knowing that I was taken care of by Mr. Kolodziej and this is now behind me I highly recommend him and his firm.

    Shelia H.

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    OK, let's talk about my Attorney, Rosty Gore with the firm of Trygsrad. Schwab, and Trygsrad in Century City. No sweat, his office is really easy to find. Rosty was helpful, non-judgmental, honest, and really worked for me. I wasn't sure about my outcome (actually, I was scared). But he put my mind to rest, wrote an incredible 9 page letter, told me each step of the way, and a couple of weeks later, I get letter that we won. Yay!!! He was so truly happy for me. Trust this guy. Worth every penny.

    Mark S.

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    I was exceptionally represented by Attorney Daniel Kolodziej. He went to bat for me concerning a work related matter with potential career altering implications . Per his know-how, care, concern, and due diligence, the matter was favorably resolved. Attorney Dan is an experienced attorney who also exhibits extreme humility. I am appreciative of his expertise and am grateful for his fortitude.

    Melanie H.

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    An Outstanding Experienced Attorney Daniel Kolodziej were great at representing my interests in a legal matter with my current employee. Daniel was a very down-to-earth attorney who had the sophistication of knowing the in’s and out’s of public sector HR law but also knew how to explain it in simple terms to me. Daniel had a lot of patience in listening to my concerns and thoughts and I felt that he respected me and my opinions. There were multiple times where he would fight for me more than I would fight for myself! Daniel also responded quickly to my phone calls, emails and messages to get me the answers I felt I needed and let me know about the latest news as it happened. I felt that I always knew what was going on. Their costs and fees were very clear and I was not surprised in the bill by any additional fees or unexpected upcharges.

    Ken H.

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    Extremely knowledgeable and professionnal. I have very complicated work issues and Daniel has been very helpful. He is very knowledgeable, professional, and right to the point. I highly recommend him if any employment issues as he knows what he's talking about. Thanks, Daniel.

    Mary G.

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    Grateful! Mr. Kolodziej came to my rescue as a new teacher with little knowledge on contracts. He helped me get out of a difficult situation with success. Throughout the process, he guided me and answered any questions I had. He helped me understand what I could anticipate during the time frame and prepared me for any situation that could occur. I would highly recommend him, I will be forever grateful to him for his support!

    Anonymous

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    Great Lawyer Daniel Kolodziej was a beacon of hope to me at a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed almost impossible. Not only was he able to defend me, but his calm and empathetic demeanor offered emotional support. I am eternally grateful for their help and support. I hereby recommend Daniel Kolodziej without reservation.

    Javier F.

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