Why You Should Hire a Lawyer When Your Child Isn't Making Enough Progress in School
When your child has special education needs, you might be frustrated when you feel like your child is not making the type of progress that you think they need to make. This could be the fault of the school. Each school is mandated to provide the resources needed for children who are struggling.
You Might Be Overwhelmed
You might feel overwhelmed, but you don't have to be. A special education lawyer is trained to identify warning signs that your child is not having their needs met. They will help you understand the requirements that the school is expected to follow under the IEP.
Your Child is Entitled to Many Services
For example, schools are required to make sure that computers are available to students with special education needs. If the school ignores this or any other part of the IEP, you may be able to file a lawsuit.
Common Services That Children with Special Needs Require
There are various services that your child should be entitled to including:
- Tutoring
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Speech therapy
- Evaluations
- Psychological services
- Coaching
When your child is struggling in school, access to these services can give your child a much greater opportunity to succeed.
The IEP Can Be Confusing
The IEP can be very complex and can be difficult for parents to navigate. You will need to attend a large number of meetings and hearings. You will likely be emotionally stressed and burned out. Fortunately, for a special education lawyer, understanding and applying these laws is what they do every day and they are trained to be an effective advocate for parents.
Consult with a Special Education Lawyer for Free
If you are not sure whether it's a good idea to hire a special education lawyer, the good news is that you can receive a free consultation in most cases. By receiving a free consultation, you will be able to determine whether you have a case and whether you should lawyer up.
When you choose to lawyer up, your school district will also likely hire a lawyer and your interactions with the school will become more formal. However, this is the first step toward pursuing the needs of your child.
A Lawsuit Might Not Be Necessary
You will not necessarily have to file a lawsuit against the school. Oftentimes, the conflicts between parents and teachers can be resolved out of court. Your school will interpret the act of hiring a lawyer as a sign that you're serious about your child's education and may become more compliant.