When parents disagree with the school of their kid about special education, they might have to think about hiring an attorney. This is particularly true if they do not agree with the services their special kid is getting.
Unfortunately, it can be extremely difficult to find the right lawyer for special education, especially if it is your first time doing it. That is why we are here to help.
Today, we are going to share with you a couple of tips on how to hire a special education attorney.
Make Sure Your Personalities are Compatible
This might appear obvious. However, this is one of the biggest factors that can affect your relationship with the lawyer. You should feel comfortable with your lawyer. You can even make him/her your friend. However, you still have to maintain a professional level of relationship.
Keep in mind that it’s a business relationship. Just like how you want to get along with your doctor, mechanic, or plumber, you want to ensure your relationship with the lawyer is solid and compatible.
Does the Lawyer Specialize in Special Education Law?
When it comes to special education disputes, school districts are fighting more than ever. The truth is that it’s going to be an extremely difficult fight. Because of this, you should not just hire a general lawyer.
You need to find one who knows legal precedent, examining witnesses, evidence, and legal procedures when it comes to special education law. To make things simple, hire a lawyer who specializes in special education law.
Ask About Other Similar Cases the Lawyer Handled
You should ask the lawyer if he/she has handled similar cases. Keep in mind that lawyers will not name their previous clients. However, they can explain other special education cases they have handled in general. They should also describe what forms of disabilities their other client’s kids had.
Ask the lawyer if the case has been settled or if they won it. You should also ask what the main problem was and how difficult the fight was with the school.
Research the Lawyer
Perhaps you aren’t sure how to do this. Fortunately, there are a lot of websites out there that can help. This includes Yelp, Facebook, Google My Business, and more.
Make sure you look at the credentials of the lawyer. How long has the lawyer been doing special education legal work? How long has he/she been in the industry? Where did the lawyer go to law school? Almost everything you need to know will be written on the website. However, you can also ask for referrals.
Make Sure You Look Around
Professionals recommend that you talk to 2-3 lawyers before you hire one. Keep in mind that not all lawyers are the same. What type of lawyer do you want? Do you want a reasonable, passionate, cheap, or aggressive lawyer? Do you want the lawyer to take charge of the case or are you going to help? In addition to that, not all lawyers have the same rates. Make sure you compare your options.
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