Received a legal document? If you receive any legal document or notice relating to University business (subpoena, complaint, hearing notice, or any document relating to a legal proceeding), please forward it to our office immediately.
Our Mission
The mission of the Office of Legal Affairs is to educate the John Carroll University community as to the laws applicable to the University's operations, to solve legal problems and facilitate transactions, to provide advice and counsel to foster sound decision-making and creative problem-solving, and to provide legal representation—all to facilitate the University's pursuit of its mission.
It is our goal to provide counsel to minimize legal risks and costs, reduce litigation exposure, and ensure legal compliance, and to do so efficiently, expeditiously, reliably, and professionally.
In serving the University's interests, we pursue excellence in the quality of services provided and maintain the highest standards of professional ethics and integrity.
Welcome to the Office of Legal Affairs, the in-house corporate legal office for John Carroll University. We support the mission of the University by handling all aspects of legal services and providing advice for the Board of Directors, the President, and all authorized administration and representatives.
The Office initiates legal action to forestall problems and manage risks, represents the University in administrative and judicial proceedings, and is responsible for retaining and supervising outside counsel.
Faculty/staff resources are available on myJCU.
How We Can Help
Matters requiring legal advice or legal action relating to University business should be referred to our office through the appropriate University administrator such as a director, dean, or vice president.
- Contracts & Agreements — Drafting and reviewing agreements, contracts, licenses, and leases. We also facilitate delegations of contract authority.
- Policy & Compliance — Interpretation and drafting of legislation, rules, regulations, and policies. Legal advice on matters involving compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
- Litigation & Legal Proceedings — Management of litigation, response to subpoenas and other requests for documents, and representation in administrative and judicial proceedings.
- Intellectual Property — Guidance on intellectual property issues including trademarks, copyrights, and patents related to University operations and research.
- Governance & Ethics — Governance questions, conflict of interest issues, and equity and discrimination matters.
- Real Property & Immigration — Acquisition of real property and immigration services overview and protocol. For immigration details, see the University's Immigration Protocol.
Our Team
The Office of Legal Affairs is led by University counsel and supported by the Legal Office Coordinator. For all inquiries, please use the contact information below.
- Colleen Treml — General Counsel
- Paul Featsent — Assistant General Counsel
- Jen Drozdowski — Legal Office Coordinator
Please note: The Office of Legal Affairs is not authorized to render personal legal advice to University employees or students.
