Lightfoot, Franklin & White has substantial experience assisting collegiate athletic programs in National Collegiate Athletic Association compliance matters and investigations. The firm recently represented a major university in an investigation of its men's basketball program. In addition to leading the investigation for the university, the firm also presented the university's case at the hearing before the NCAA Committee on Infractions. The Committee ultimately cleared our client of the most serious allegations of NCAA rules violations, and the client did not appeal the findings and penalties against it. This case involved the pursuit of new theories by the NCAA Enforcement Staff related to collegiate basketball, giving our lawyers unique experience and knowledge in this area.

In addition to investigations of alleged rules violations and appearances before the NCAA Committee on Infractions, we also have experience in assessing the needs of athletic programs quickly and cost-effectively and providing practical advice to help universities avoid NCAA rules compliance issues. Our lawyers provide services such as:

• advising on NCAA compliance matters and public records issues;
• investigating of compliance and eligibility issues; and
• representing clients before the NCAA and other governing bodies.

Also, our lawyers provide general advice on employment and endorsement contracts, draft employment contracts for various athletic department employees, and handle employee and contract disputes.