Student Affairs in Litigious Contexts: The Perspectives of General Counsel and Institutional Leaders on Collaborating to Support Students

Abstract: In an increasingly litigious and politically charged environment, university general counsel (UGC) play a critical yet understudied role in shaping institutional responses to student activism and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. This case study explores how UGC and institutional leaders at two southern U.S. universities collaborate to support students amid legal and sociopolitical pressures. Findings reveal that UGC provided both legal and non-legal advice, centered institutional values in decision-making to manage legal risk, and drew on institutional knowledge to support leaders’ decision- and policy-making. The study has implications for research and practice in student affairs.