American Bar Association, MEMBER
CT Bar Association, MEMBER, Education Committee
Special Education Legal Fund, SELF ADVISORY BOARD
Council of Parents Attorneys and Advocates, MEMBER
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2012-2018
Lambda Legal, MEMBER
The State Bar of Connecticut
The Federal Bar for the District of Connecticut
JD from Northeastern University School of Law
Master of Science in Education from Simmons College
Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Fairfield University.
Valerie Pomeroy, with over a decade of experience, is a committed special education non-attorney advocate dedicated to advocating for the needs of children with special needs. Her expertise spans a range of exceptionalities such as Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, and Learning Disabilities, gained through extensive work with students aged 3 to 21. Valerie’s journey in special education advocacy began with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education from the University of Saint Joseph and a Masters of Education in Education Policy and Leadership from American University. Following her academic pursuits, she completed the Special Education Advocate Training (SEAT) through the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), deepening her knowledge of educational policies under IDEA and FAPE. Valerie’s role is pivotal in advocating for appropriate educational settings and services. Her focus is on ensuring that each child’s educational rights are upheld, advocating effectively for their needs, and empowering families to navigate the special education system, thus enabling every child to access the educational opportunities they deserve.
Master of Education Policy and Leadership from American University
Connecticut Special Education Teaching Certification (165)
Bachelor of Science in Special Education from University of Saint Joseph
Valerie has successfully completed the
Special Education Advocates Training (SEAT) through the Council for Parents Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)
and abides by the Advocate Voluntary Code of Ethics.
With two decades of dedicated practice in special education law, my firm provides a comprehensive array of services. This includes advocacy at IEP meetings, representation at Due Process Hearings, and, when necessary, litigation in Federal court if necessary. My approach is rooted in collaboration with your school district, aiming to achieve the best possible outcomes for your child while minimizing stress and avoiding the need for litigation.
To address the financial aspect of legal representation, I have developed a fixed-fee schedule that clearly outlines the costs associated with each task, regardless of the time it takes to complete. This transparent billing structure is designed to remove any financial uncertainty, allowing parents to focus solely on their child’s educational needs without worrying about fluctuating legal costs.
Lastly, my fee schedule is not an à la carte menu of services, but rather a steadfast commitment to you for fair and consistent billing. This approach provides a reliable framework for your financial planning, acting as a guiding compass as you navigate the intricate pathways of special education law.
If you are negotiating a settlement agreement with your school district, my firm offers expert guidance for district negotiations, provides thorough legal reviews of settlement agreement language to ensure your understanding, and manages settle agreement funds in a trust account for compliant distribution.
My practice offers a unique approach to special education advocacy, complemented by the expertise of a skilled non-attorney special education advocate. While she independently assists her own clients, guiding parents through the process, providing insights on specific educational needs, and supporting families in navigating PPTs, evaluations, and IEP modifications, we do sometimes collaborate.
Understanding the Role of Attorney vs. Non-Attorney Advocate: Special education attorneys and advocates each play distinct roles in supporting families.
As a special education attorney, I focus on legal representation and handle matters where applying the law is critical. I try to get involved early, at the PPT or voluntary mediaiton level, so as to avoid protracted litigation for my clients. But I am ready and able should a due process hearing be necessary. I work to ensure that your child’s legal, civil, and educational rights are upheld through the appropriate legal channels.
On the other hand, the non-attorney special education advocate brings valuable experience in the educational system itself and offers guidance on a more consultative level. An advocate can help parents understand the special education process, identify specific educational needs, and offer hands-on support during PPT meetings, evaluations, and IEP modifications. While advocates do not provide legal representation, their expertise in navigating school procedures can be an essential asset for families.
If an unexpected issue suddenly arises, you need to reschedule, or you have to assist your child during our talk, THAT'S OKAY.
If your only chance to reach out is while while waiting in the car for your child’s therapy session, YOU CAN.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, having exhausted all options and still seeking the right path for your child's education, I GET IT.
Due to travel, timing, and cost, attending all those special education conferences can be a struggle. However, as your attorney and advocate, we regularly attend and present at local and national conferences to stay updated on key special education topics and the law. We are always aware of the latest strategies, legal precedents, and best practices to effectively represent and work with you and your child.
For special education legal and advocacy services, we offer fixed-fees for most activities we will do on your behalf, not hourly billing. This provides clear, manageable costs. We don’t charge for most communications with your attorney or advocate in an effort to keep costs down. This transparent approach allows us to focus on navigating special education law and ensures transparency in billing.
DISCLAIMER: The materials on this website are for attorney advertising and are not intended to establish an attorney-client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Dana A. Jonson, LLC. Please note that an attorney-client relationship with the Law Offices of Dana A. Jonson, LLC is only established upon the execution of a retainer agreement. Do not send confidential documents without receiving express prior approval. The content on this website is provided for entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Any external links are provided for informational purposes only, and the Law Offices of Dana A. Jonson, LLC is not responsible for the accuracy or content of linked materials.
The Law Office of Dana A. Jonson, LLC dedicates its practice to protecting the legal and civil rights of children with disabilities through all stages of the special education process. We help families through challenging issues with school districts all across CONNECTICUT.
