Special Education Advocacy

Children with special needs, and their parents and guardians, face extraordinary challenges. While there are significant resources available, the costs and the processes involved in obtaining access to special education offerings can be overwhelming. Bochner’s team of experienced professionals make a major difference in the lives of our young clients and their families, helping them navigate complicated legal hurdles and complex educational bureaucracies.

Among other services, our attorneys can provide advocacy and support in:

• Identifying and securing placement in an appropriate educational setting with the necessary educational services for your child
• Obtaining tuition reimbursement for parents of students who require private and specialized schools and programs.
• Helping parents of special needs children understand the law and assist their child in succeeding in school.
• Developing an appropriate Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for your child, which outlines the special education services your child should receive.
• Collaborating with schools, administrators, and social services agencies to create the optimal environment for each student.
• Representing families at Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings and hearings.
• Filing a State Education Complaint if necessary to protect your child’s right to enriching, personalized special education services.
• Handling disciplinary issues for students who are experiencing difficulty in school.
• Negotiating testing assistance and accommodations for students who require additional support and modifications.

Your Child Has Rights – We Can Help

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004 (IDEA) guarantees children with special needs a “free and appropriate” education. Other critical statutes that protect children’s rights, include No Child Left Behind, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other New York State and federal laws.

Your child’s best interests are our focus. We help you understand what these statutes and regulations mean, put them into language you can understand, and assist you in choosing the best course of action. We seek to obtain an appropriate education at no cost for as many children as possible.

For more information, contact Matthew Shatkes, matthew@bochner.law | (646) 971-0685