Legal challenges are costly not only to the school board involved in the case, but potentially to other boards. When a board loses an important decision, case law can be established that impacts all boards. AASB's Legal Assistance Fund (LAF) supports school boards' common interests by assisting members who are involved in cases of statewide significance.

Typically, the LAF enters such cases by filing amicus curiae ("friend of the court") briefs or providing legal research. Governed by a board of trustees, the LAF seeks to influence the outcome of court challenges, but under no circumstances will it bear the full cost of a case.

LAF membership dues are minimal.

For information, contact AASB Executive Director Sally Howell at 334/277-9700 or showell@alabamaschoolboards.org.