Sometimes you need a guide to help you figure out where to begin.
Sometimes you need an expert to navigate the intricate paths for you.
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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 have a settlement from your school district, my firm offers expert guidance in district negotiations, provides thorough legal reviews of settlement agreements to ensure your understanding, and manages settlement funds in a Trust Account for compliant disbursement.
Connecticut non-lawyer Special Education Advocate, Valerie Pomeroy, offers guidance for parents who are advocating for their child’s special education needs themselves. She assists in navigating the complex special education process, reviews and explains key documents like the latest IEP and evaluations, and provides strategies for effective advocacy. She will also attend school meetings with you so you are never on your own. Our services include unlimited communication to ensure we can best support your advocacy efforts.
In our ‘LGBTQIA+ Discrimination Legal Services,’ we recognize the unique challenges faced by students at the intersection of special education and LGBTQIA+ identities. With over two decades in special education law, we’ve observed that some of our clients also encounter discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. As such, our extended services include legal support specifically tailored to address these issues in educational settings. This involves filing complaints with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO), the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) of the U.S. Department of Education, and litigating in State and Federal Courts as necessary. Our goal is to create inclusive and respectful learning environments, championing the rights and dignity of every student. We are committed to supporting the diverse needs of all students, acknowledging that the journey through education can be complex for those who navigate both special education and LGBTQIA+ related challenges.
If a school-related issue suddenly arises or you have to assist your child with their homework during our conversation, THAT'S OKAY.
If your only chance to reach out is during the after-school pick-up line or while waiting for your child at practice,
YOU CAN.
If you are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain, having exhausted all options and still seeking the right path for your child's education, I GET IT.
Struggling to attend all those special education conferences? As your attorney, in addition to my vast experiences, I regularly attend and present at local and national conferences to stay updated on key topics in special education and the law. This ensures I have the latest strategies and legal precedents to effectively represent you and your child.
I offer fixed-fee, not hourly billing, for special education legal and advocacy services. This provides clear, more manageable costs. I use technology and don’t charge for communications with your attorney to keep expenses down. This transparent approach lets us focus on navigating special education law, ensuring that finances are in line with your needs.
The Law Office of Dana A. Jonson, LLC dedicates its practice to protecting the legal and civil rights of children with disabilities through the special education process. We help families through challenging issues with school districts all across CONNECTICUT.
203-797-8881
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.