Questions
Questions parents ask before they hire a lawyer
When is it time to call a lawyer?
When the school has said no to something your child needs, when a notice mentions a hearing, or when you’ve asked in writing and nobody has answered. Earlier is usually easier.
Does hiring a lawyer mean a lawsuit?
No. Most of the work is reading, writing letters and sitting in meetings. A hearing is the exception.
My child has no diagnosis yet. Can you still help?
Yes. A school must consider a request for evaluation even without a diagnosis. I help you write one and keep track of the dates.
My child was suspended yesterday. What do I do first?
Read the notice for the hearing date, ask for your child’s schoolwork, and don’t sign anything yet. Then call.
Can you come to the school meeting?
Yes, in person or by video, depending on the meeting. I can also prepare you and stay on the phone before and after.
What if we’re about to move?
Tell me the date and bring the plan. A new school has to offer comparable services while it decides what comes next.
Is what I tell you private?
Yes, once we’ve agreed to work together. Before then, please don’t send details through the website form; call, and I’ll tell you what I need.
Do you take cases outside education?
No. I don’t handle custody, college admissions or personal injury. I’ll point you to someone who does.
Which of these sounds like your week?
Tell me what the school said, and I’ll tell you which of these it sounds like.