As a parent, there are going to be many times when you have to fight for your child’s education. This fight is even more prevalent if you are a parent of a special needs child or a child with a learning disability. Many times you will be able to resolve the issue with the school district, but other times it may seem like your are a small voice fighting against the wind. In instances like these, a special needs attorney may be helpful, as well as essential for you to get your voice heard and for the appropriate action to be taken.
Reasons You May Need a Special Needs Attorney
Since a special needs attorney can be pricey, you may hesitate on hiring one, especially if you are unsure whether you need one or not. You can determine whether or not you need a special education attorney if your case is a complex one. Special education law is complicated and there are many details to know and understand. Therefore, if your case is complex, the right attorney will have the knowledge of the law and procedures to resolve your case.
Another reason you may want to hire a special education attorney is if you work full-time or are a single parent. Court cases can be time consuming and energy draining. There is a lot of time involved to prepare for the case, research the law, and go to meetings, hearings, and other court appearances. As a parent of a special needs child or child with a learning disability, your schedule is already full and stressful enough. An attorney can take that added stress off of you. The right attorney may also be able to resolve a case faster than you may have been able to do by yourself.
When considering hiring a special needs attorney, you also need to consider who will be representing the school district. If the school district has their own attorney, you will increase your case’s odds by also having an attorney.
If you are still unsure whether you need a special education attorney, consider how you feel about the case. If you feel nervous or doubt your ability to properly represent your child’s case, then it is best to talk with an attorney than proceed with the case by yourself. The right attorney will make you feel confident in your case and still make you feel like you have all of the power.
An attorney’s job is to be your voice and knowledge in certain situations. The right attorney will still keep you highly involved in the case while they do all of the hard work. With the right special needs attorney, you can be assured that you still have a voice and the power to make the important decisions.
Photo by MargaretNapier
