practice AREAS

Our team provides exceptional representation for school districts and educational institutions to collaboratively resolve conflict with students and their families. Our approach to education law is driven by our belief that the most successful outcome of any education dispute is one in which all parties have worked together to provide the student with an appropriate educational program. When a collaborative outcome is impossible, however, we do not hesitate to explore alternative paths to resolution, including litigation.

  • Our attorneys have extensive experience navigating the complex special education process.

    Our school practice includes consultation with school administrators, teachers, and service providers, participation in IEP and 504 meetings, assessment of the need for compensatory education, and compliance with federal, state, and local laws.

    When there is a dispute that cannot be resolved amicably, we will help the school navigate the most appropriate approach to resolving the matter, including mediation, due process hearings, or other litigation.

  • Education law is complicated. Our team of experienced professionals have experience training educators on the legal obligations all schools have to their students with disabilities.

    Our professional development programs can be tailored to the needs of our clients. Past programs have included:

    • Section 504 Compliance

    • Transition Services

    • Effective IEP Strategy

    • Child Find Obligations

    • Out of District Placements

    • Special Education Topics for General Education Teachers

    • Student Social-Emotional Needs

    • The Dispute Resolution Process

  • Colleges and universities have obligations to their students with disabilities under laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Our team can help schools craft compliant and appropriate accommodations for students, and ensure the are being implemented.

    Students often come to college with little understanding of the difference between services offered by secondary schools and colleges. We provide advice on policies and practices to facilitate the transition for incoming students who received services in secondary school.

  • There is frequent overlap between Title IX issues and disability law. Our experience with students with disabilities, including social-emotional needs, and Title IX compliance can help educational institutions meet their obligations under disability, special education, and anti-discrimination laws when Title IX issues arise.

Old Main Building at Penn State University from the far corner of the lawn