Practice Area
Special Education Representation
Legal representation when a dispute with the district needs more than advocacy.
📅 Schedule a No-Cost, No-Commitment ConsultI represent families at every stage of the special education process — from IEP meetings and PPTs to mediation and, when necessary, litigation. I also provide guidance on decision-making and guardianship tools.
Where I Can Help
Wherever You Are in the Process
Evaluation Disputes
When a district’s evaluation falls short, I assess whether there is a legal basis to challenge it and represent you in seeking an independent evaluation or other remedy.
PPT Representation
When a PPT involves a legal dispute, you do not want to attend alone. I attend as your attorney — building the record and negotiating with the district on your behalf.
Mediation
When advocacy hits gridlock, many disputes resolve in mediation — but that can mean signing a legally binding agreement. I present your best case and ensure you do not sign away rights you did not mean to.
Discipline & Placement
When students with disabilities find themselves in trouble, disciplinary action, placement changes, and manifestation determination reviews can impact their education. I make sure they still receive the services they are entitled to.
Decision-Making & Guardianship
When your child turns 18, their educational rights transfer to them. While guardianship is appropriate in some situations, there are other options for educational power of attorney and facilitated decision-making. I guide you through the right choice for your child.
Resolving Disputes with the District
Bringing in an attorney can often move things forward. My first goal is always to resolve matters with the district, while holding firm on what your child needs and preserving your rights. Due process is a last resort, not a first step.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an educational advocate and an attorney?
An advocate supports and guides you through the process, whether there is a current dispute or not. I only take on matters that have an actual legal basis — something that could go to mediation or due process if it is not resolved. Some matters require an attorney early on, but most families work through advocacy first, on their own or with an educational advocate, and bring in an attorney once they hit an impasse.
What is an IEE, and how do I get one?
An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is any evaluation conducted by a qualified professional who is not employed by the school district. There are a few ways to get one: the school sometimes recommends one and selects the evaluator itself; parents can arrange and pay for one privately; parents and the district can agree on a mutually acceptable evaluator; or, if you disagree with the district’s own evaluation, you can request an IEE at public expense. If you do request an IEE at public expense, the district must then either approve it and let you choose the evaluator, or initiate a due process hearing to defend its evaluation. I can help determine which path fits your situation and represent you through the request.
Will you try to resolve this without going to due process?
Yes. My first goal on every matter is to try to resolve the issues directly with the district. Due process is slow, costly, and uncertain. If there is another way to resolve the matter, we will discuss it.