Special education law is a specialized area of legal practice that focuses on the regulations and statutes governing the education of students with disabilities who may qualify under thirteen disability categories between the ages of three and twenty-one. Key legislation in this field includes the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These laws establish the rights of students with disabilities to receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE).

As a special education attorney, I provide a wide range of services to assist families in securing the educational rights of their children. These services include:

• Consultation and Legal Advice: Expert guidance on the applicable laws and regulations, helping families understand their rights and options.
• IEP Meetings: Attendance at Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings to ensure that the student's needs are accurately assessed and appropriately addressed in the IEP.
• Dispute Resolution: Representation at informal dispute resolution and mediation.
• Due Process Hearings: Preparation of complaints and representation in the legal process through the decision.
• Appeals of Administrative Decisions: Representation from filing through decision.
• Follow-through: Enforcement of settlements and/or decisions obtained on a client's behalf.

School disciplinary actions can significantly impact a student's educational experience. I can provide guidance and advocacy to ensure your student’s rights are protected and that disciplinary measures are fair and appropriate. It is important to ensure the school district complies with legal standards and procedures.

Students with disabilities are given special protections, in certain circumstances, in disciplinary matters. These protections also extend to students who are suspected of having a disability. 

Understanding the disciplinary matrix can be complicated. For example, a student who is suspended for 10 days is entitled to a manifestation determination before any further suspensions may occur. If the behavior is considered a manifestation of the student's disability, the student must be returned to their placement unless one of the statutory exceptions exists. 

I can help understand the nuances related to students with disabilities and seek an assessment for a student who is suspected of having a disability.

Facing a Title IX investigation can be overwhelming and the consequences serious. I can guide you through every step, ensuring your student's rights are protected. Throughout the process, I:

• Advise on your rights and responsibilities
• Representing you in hearings and meetings
• Providing ongoing support and advocacy
• Ensure a fair process that follows the school district's procedures

As part of my representation of students and their families, I negotiate numerous settlement agreements every year. I also work with many advocates to review settlement agreements secured with the support of a non-attorney advocate.

It is important to understand what you are signing. This is especially true if you have worked with a non-attorney advocate during the negotiation process. I can review your settlement agreement to ensure you understand the terms of the agreement and provide advice on changes to propose to protect you and your student's rights. 

Note: I recommend working with an attorney through the negotiation process. However, I understand this is not always feasible for families. If you are working with a non-attorney advocate, it is recommended you demand the school district allocate $450 - $1,000 in a fund to use to obtain advice prior to signing the agreement. Most school districts will agree to this demand.

Attorney services in special education mediation are vital for resolving disputes and ensuring that children with disabilities receive the educational support they need. Through legal representation, preparation, negotiation, and agreement drafting, I am able to advocate for the student's rights and facilitate a fair and efficient resolution. 

I am also a trained mediator and can act as a mediator and/or neutral facilitator.