How it works
Five steps, from your first message to a settled plan
Every family’s path is a little different. This is the usual one.
- 01
Step 1: You write or call
Tell me what the school said and send what you have. You don’t need to put it in order.
- 02
Step 2: We talk for half an hour
I ask what happened, what your child needs and what you hope for. I tell you honestly whether I can help.
- 03
Step 3: I read everything
I go through every page, then write you a short plan: what to ask for, what it may cost and how long it may take.
- 04
Step 4: We go to the meeting or hearing
I can sit beside you at a meeting, speak for you at a hearing, or prepare you to do it yourself.
- 05
Step 5: I check what happens next
I follow up until what the school promised shows up in your child’s schedule.
Costs and details
What it costs, and how we’ll talk
How do you charge?
Most work is billed by the hour, and I send an estimate in writing before I begin. If the work will cost more than the estimate, I’ll tell you first.
Do I owe costs even if the outcome isn’t what I hoped?
Yes. You pay for the work done, whatever the outcome, and costs like records fees or an outside evaluation are separate from my time. I list them in the estimate.
Can we work by phone and video?
Yes, for most of the work. Meetings at the school and hearings are in person.
What if I only need help preparing?
That works. Some parents want an hour of preparation before an IEP meeting and nothing more, and that’s a fine way to start.
Keep the latest letter nearby.
When you’re ready, write to the office and attach nothing yet. I’ll ask for the papers when we talk.