Consultations
General Consultations
Not sure if you need an attorney? Want to get to know me better before you decide whether you want to hire me? Contact me to schedule a thirty minute phone consultation. Be sure to check out my blog post on maximizing your consultation.
IEP Reviews
IEPs are complex documents that outline your child's disability/ies, how those disabilities impact their ability to learn, what goals the school has for your child, and what accommodations, modifications, and services the school has agreed to provide your child. The better you understand the IEP, the more effectively you can advocate for your child's needs. Ned some help decoding the IEP or deciding if it is sufficient for your child? Contact me to set up an IEP review. Include a copy of your child's most recent or proposed IEP. I will review the IEP and then schedule a thirty minute phone call with you where we can discuss the IEP and you can ask me questions about it.
Legal Services
Special Education Issues
For students who need them, special education services are a lifeline. Unfortunately, even though most schools are required by federal law to identify these students and provide them services, schools often move too slowly or completely bypass students in need. If you think your child's school is not giving them what they need to succeed, get in touch. Here are some ways I can help:
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Seeking special education evaluations and advocating for your child at eligibility meetings
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Advocating at special education meetings for the services, accommodations, and modifications your child needs
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Holding schools accountable when they fail to provide services they agreed to provide
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Helping to secure a placement in a more supportive setting
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Protecting your child from being disciplined due to their disabilities
School Discipline
Out of school suspensions are a disciplinary measure commonly used by schools in an attempt to punish a variety of actions and behaviors. Because out of school suspensions deprive students of instructional time, students have the right to an attorney and to appeal suspension decisions in some, but not all, circumstances. Please note that hearing and appeal timelines in school discipline matters move extremely quickly, so if you think you might need an attorney please reach out ASAP.
Child Requiring Assistance Cases
Child Requiring Assistance (also known as a CRA) petitions ask courts to help with difficult behaviors by minors such as running away and refusing to attend school. They can be filed by custodians, schools, and sometimes police. These cases can result in children and families getting services, but they can also result in changes of custody. If your child's school files a CRA, reach out and I can help you navigate the case.