A summary is presented of some of the ways that judicial decisions and laws have an impact on higher education and on public education. The sources of legal obligation that impose duties and responsibilities on teachers are discussed. These are: common law, contractual obligations, state laws, and federal laws. The legal definitions are given of liability, negligence, informed consent, injunctive relief, tort liability, and strict tort. In a discussion of educational malpractice, several court decisions are cited to illustrate the legal interpretation of the term. The legal ramifications of Public Law 94-142, Education for the Handicapped Act, are examined. The rights of students to free association and privacy are considered as they affect the rights and obligations of an educational institution and faculty. (JD)