Skilled Calabasas Attorney Advocates for the Interests of Children with Disabilities

Hardworking Southern California lawyer represents clients in special education matters

Every child has the right to a quality education. At Saucedo Law Group based in Calabasas, I represent children and their families in Los Angeles, Ventura and nearby Southern California counties in special education matters. My law firm is dedicated to helping parents who are facing disputes with school districts over their child’s educational needs or who need assistance addressing other related concerns. You can trust me to provide sound and informed advice and to handle your matter with the diligence it deserves.

Committed law firm stands up for rights of special needs students and their parents

Under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), eligible children with disabilities have the right to a free education that is tailored to their needs. Special education services must be provided to children up to the age of 22 in California. A parent of a special needs child has the right to have them assessed to determine what their educational needs are and to be involved, along with school district personnel, in developing an individualized education program (IEP) that meets those needs. The IEP is key to an effective education for special needs students. If you are in conflict with school representatives about your child’s IEP and need a legal advocate, I can provide legal guidance as you work to resolve the conflict, or I can represent your child’s interests in front of school district personnel.

Knowledgeable legal advisor explains who is eligible under IDEA

Children with the following disabilities that affect their educational performance are eligible for special education under the IDEA:

• Intellectual disability or a specific learning disability
• Impairments related to hearing, sight, speech or language
• Orthopedic impairment
• Autism
• Serious emotional disturbance, like depression
• Traumatic brain injury

Prior to developing the IEP, an evaluation will take place with school representatives to determine your child’s eligibility for special education. If your child is found ineligible for special education, you have the right to challenge that decision at a hearing. I can assist you at the hearing and throughout all the steps in the eligibility process.

Dedicated counselor advises about the IEP process

As stated by the U.S. Department of Education, the IEP “is the cornerstone of a quality education for each child with a disability.” As such, it’s critical that the document truly reflects your child’s needs. Once your child is deemed eligible for special education, the IEP meeting to develop the document must be scheduled within 30 days. Participants in the meeting include school staff and parents. If you don’t agree with the contents of the IEP or your child’s placement, I can help you try to negotiate a better outcome or guide you in mediation, which you have the right to request to resolve the issue.

Contact a reliable Southern California law firm with your special education legal concerns

Saucedo Law Group in Calabasas advocates for parents and families facing issues related to special education in Southern California, including Los Angeles, Ventura and surrounding areas. To schedule a free consultation, call my firm at 818-918-6166 or contact me online.