Attorney Phillip Cohn represents parents and their children in special education matters throughout Connecticut.  Mr. Cohn is skilled in identifying problems, proposing remedies, and negotiating solutions to protect children with special needs, including autism; asperger syndrome; pervasive developmental disorder (PDD); learning disabilities; attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD / ADHD); dyslexia, tourette syndrome; personality disorder; bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD); and depression & anxiety. He attends Planning and Placement Team meetings (PPTs), helps develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and Section 504 Plans, and determines what educational services children may be entitled to as a result of their disability. 

Attorney Cohn helps families (1) understand whether their child is eligible for special education services and accommodations under an IEP or 504 plan; (2) determine if their child is making appropriate educational progress, (3) identify and request the various educational services that their child may be entitled to; and (4) advocate for their child’s rights, if the family disagrees with the school’s course of action.  Attorney Cohn ensures that the child gains access to appropriate educational programming and placement, such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, assistive technology, preparation for gainful employment, and out-of-district placement, if appropriate, etc.

Attorney Cohn works collaboratively with families and school districts to help develop an appropriate educational program for the child, including special education services, extracurricular activities, sports, and other related services.  In the event an agreement cannot be reached, he will pursue mediation, due process, and litigation to protect the child’s rights and procure an appropriate educational program.