Parents have a ton of demands on their time and energy. When your children are struggling in school, it is difficult to know where to turn for help. Learning the complexities of the law around your child’s right to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), and what that even means, is not something you need to add to those demands. Schools are not always forthcoming with what services or accommodations are available and schools often fail to listen to the parents. Remember, you are the parent. You know your child best. Do not let the school bully you in to accepting less services or believing that there are limits on what services can be provided.
Here are some questions to ask yourself to help you decide whether you need an attorney:
1. Does something not feel right?
2. Do you feel that your child is struggling and needs more support?
3. Did you ask for a meeting and the school refused or delayed?
4. Does your child already receive services and accommodations through an IEP and you do not agree with the new IEP or placement decision?
5. Does your child have a 504 plan and your child is still struggling?
6. Do you feel the school is failing to comply with your child’s IEP?
7. Is the school using COVID as an excuse not to move forward with any part of eligibility, tri-annual evaluations, or annual IEP review?
8. Is the school using COVID as an excuse to not provide specific services or accommodations?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should consult an attorney. An Education Attorney can help you understand your rights and the law. An attorney can discuss your options and help you develop a plan on how to best advocate for your child. Sometimes a consultation can be enough to give you the information needed to proceed on your own. Sometimes, a longer engagement is needed. You will not know which will fit your situation until you make the first call.
Frances Shefter is an Education Advocate and Attorney with her own law firm, Shefter Law, P.A. She was a regular education and special education teacher for nine years before attending law school. She has been practicing Special Education law in Maryland and the District of Columbia for nine years. You can reach her at 301-605-7303 or frances@shefterlaw.com to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation. Or follow her at:
https://www.instagram.com/shefterlawpa/
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