Arizona Special Needs Education Law
Education is a right, not a privilege. Federal and state laws obligate schools to provide all students with a free and appropriate public education.
As an education law firm, the lawyers at Kirsch-Goodwin & Kirsch advocate for students' education rights and work to resolve disputes between our clients — the students — and School Districts and Charter Schools concerning all school and education issues. We have the background, experience and the skill necessary to assure compliance with all federal and state education and school laws.
If you have concerns about your child's educational rights, contact our Arizona school law attorneys or call our office at 480-585-0600.
Yes, Students (and Parents) Have Legal Rights
Education law is a practice area that requires legal knowledge and understanding of the interplay of federal and state laws, administrative rules and regulations, and case law which interprets the statutes. There are many federal laws that impact education cases, including:
- Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA)
- Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
- Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA)
- Family Educational Records Privacy Act (FERPA)
All states, including Arizona, are required by federal law to adopt rules that provide for the structure and operation of its own school system.
Dedicated and Compassionate Legal Help for You and Your Student
Whether you have concerns about your child's special education services, 504 services, or your student is facing a disciplinary hearing (suspension or expulsion), we can help. We will work to right the wrongs of students who have had their rights denied in a variety of situations, including:
- Special needs students who are not receiving an appropriate education
- Students who are wrongfully facing suspension or expulsion
- Protecting the rights of students who have been harassed or bullied
- Not complying with the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), whether it is full inclusion, hospital setting, Residential Treatment Center (RTC), or any of the many other placements necessary to provide your child with FAPE
In most situations we find that a collaborative or mediative approach works best. In addition to being less costly, it is almost always less stressful for our clients. If this approach does not work and a school district denies a student equal and appropriate access to education, we will discuss other legal remedies with you and develop a strategy with which you feel comfortable.
We can provide ongoing representation, but we also offer a one-time consultation option as an alternative to ongoing representation and explain your legal rights and develop a strategy to address and resolve the issues. We can meet with you to discuss your child's educational needs and advise you about the procedures as well as your child's rights at school and at due process hearings. We are here to provide you the parent support you need. Depending on your situation, we can also attend IEP and 504 meetings with you, or contact that school's attorney and attempt to resolve issues in advance of any meetings. The schools have attorneys advising them. Make sure you understand your legal rights before you meet with your child's school.
For more information about how we can help your child, call our Arizona education law firm at 480-585-0600 or contact our office online.
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