This tends to be true for other public entities....cities, special districts, school districts, etc.  Today far too many decisions are made based on "oh gosh, will we be sued?" instead of on principles and sensible policies.  These public bodies usually decide it's cheaper to roll-over, pay the ransom and move along.  It ends up costing a great deal of money and, at the same time, undercutting the credibility of the institutions.  The attorneys do very well though.