When Should I Get a Special Education Attorney involved in a Case?

The Importance of Starting Early

Getting a special education attorney involved, as early as possible, in the student advocacy process is beneficial for families because:

• A special education attorney will help parents identify and advocate for the vast range of services that their children may be reasonably entitled to receive. The sooner a special education attorney gets involved in the student advocacy process, the sooner children will receive the services they deserve.
• A special education attorney will serve as a buffer and promote amicable relations between the parents and the school’s team of educational and administrative professionals. The schools have an entire team of professionals in their corner. Parents need representation on their side as well.
• The sooner a special education attorney gets involved, the sooner the school district starts treating the parents more seriously and decisions are made. When parents get a special education attorney involved, the school district gets “down to business,” the decision makers are present, and the school team is accountable for its actions.
• Legal and advocacy fees are reduced. Legal fees do not increase by getting a special education attorney involved early.  In fact, legal fees are typically reduced because the attorney can resolve matters and promote collaboration more quickly and effectively.