How To Choose the Right Special Education Lawyer - Part 1
By the time you decide to hire a special education attorney, the stakes are high. You are likely frustrated with the school and deeply concerned about your child’s education. Hiring the wrong lawyer can waste time, drain your resources, and even harm your child’s long-term educational prospects. So how do you choose the right law firm?
1. Look for a True Specialist
Special education law is complex and rarely taught in depth law school. Just because someone passed the bar exam does not mean they are qualified to represent your child in a special education matter. The more specialized the law practice, the more likely the attorney is to have a deep understanding of IDEA, Section 504, and the nuances of working with school districts. Ask whether special education is the attorney’s primary focus.cation law.
2. Ask About Real Experience
A lawyer may claim to specialize in special education law, but that doesn’t guarantee meaningful experience. Ideally, your attorney should have participated in a range of matters, including:
IEP and Section 504 meetings
Manifestation determination reviews
Informal and formal settlement negotiations (including BSEA settlement conferences)
Due process hearings (including expedited hearings)
They should also be comfortable drafting their own settlement agreements—rather than relying on language written by the district. In Massachusetts, most special education disputes are resolved through settlement, so it may surprise you to learn that some attorneys who have been practicing for five or even ten years have never litigated a case before the Bureau of Special Education Appeals (BSEA). Even if your case never goes to hearing, you want an attorney who understands the process from start to finish.
3. Consider Connections and Professional Reputation
A knowledgeable special education attorney will have strong working relationships with the key players in the special education system. They should be able to recommend experienced advocates, evaluators, and other professionals who can support your child’s case. Your lawyer should also be familiar with the reputation and tendencies of district attorneys and special education directors, and be regarded as a prepared, reasonable, and strategic advocate.
If you are looking for a special education attorney in Massachusetts, contact Noble Education Law. With deep experience and a singular focus on special education, Lillian Wong is committed to helping families navigate this challenging process with confidence.
