Parents of school-age children often face complex and emotionally charged situations that call for clear, knowledgeable legal guidance. Whether the issue involves special education services, disciplinary actions, bullying concerns, accommodations, or disputes with school administrators, navigating the process can feel overwhelming without experienced support. Our firm works closely with parents and guardians to understand the unique circumstances of each case, providing thoughtful advice and strong advocacy every step of the way. We are committed to identifying practical, constructive solutions that protect your child’s rights and promote their educational well-being. Whenever possible, we strive to resolve matters efficiently and collaboratively, while remaining fully prepared to pursue more formal remedies when necessary.
If you are facing a challenge involving your child’s school, we encourage you to contact our office to discuss your situation. We have extensive experience working with both public school districts and private schools throughout the State of Illinois, and we are here to help you move forward with confidence.
We offer legal guidance and strategy to clients facing many issues related to school for students and their families. Every case is unique and together we define the best path forward for our clients. We have years of experience with the following areas. Our legal team’s goal is to advocate for our clients’ needs and rights in the most positive and proactive way.
Call us to discuss your case today.
- Special Education Law – IEP eligibility, improved/increased IEP services, out-placements (day school and residential)
- Section 504 and Americans with Disabilities Act laws – Obtaining eligibility, receiving accommodations, compliance and enforcement
- School Records – Records reviews and disputes
- Discipline – Special education and regular education suspension or expulsion hearings
- Bullying – bullying/harassment investigations, safety plans,
- Title IX Investigations and Appeals – Requesting or defending Title IX investigations and handling appeals from elementary schools through post-secondary programs
- School Truancy – Investigations, Regional Office of Education, appeals
- School Residency – Investigations, hearings, and appeals
- IHSA Matters – Investigations, appeals, eligibility issues
- Post-Secondary – Title IX investigations and appeals, academic, conduct, and disciplinary investigations and appeals, Section 504 and/or ADA classroom and testing accommodations and enforcement
- Child Welfare, DCFS – DCFS investigations regarding allegations of abuse or neglect and appeals of indicated findings
- Mental Health Law – Subpoenas and confidentiality, releases of information, voluntary/involuntary commitments, IDFPR complaints
- Criminal Litigation – Juveniles and adults – Petty offenses, ordinance violations, misdemeanors and felonies, well versed in mitigation for disabled individuals
- Guardianship (minors and adults) – Guardianship of the Person, the Estate or both
Some of the many legal questions we can help you with:
Is my child receiving the right special education services to meet their complex needs?
In order to determine if your child is receiving the right services, we review your child’s IEP and school records, work with any private providers and analyze whether the school is providing appropriate services, programming and placement. We can help you navigate whether your child is entitled to more than what the school is currently providing.
Is my child entitled to receive educational services during a period of suspension or expulsion?
The Illinois School Code differentiates between discipline for regular education and special education students in public schools in Illinois. We can assist you by advocating for your child to obtain the educational support and services they may require during a period of suspension or expulsion. For students in private schools, we can work with you and your child’s school to identify how your child’s needs can be met when facing disciplinary action. If your child has been suspended, expelled, or otherwise removed from their public or private school, it is important to act quickly. Early intervention can make a significant difference in protecting your child’s rights and educational future.
Should I consider a Section 504 Plan or an IEP for my child?
We utilize our vast knowledge of statutory, regulatory and case law pursuant to both Section 504 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) to identify and advocate for the most effective course of action to meet the needs of your child. Section 504 and the IDEIA are two separate and distinct laws that provide different levels of educational supports and services for students with disabilities in public schools.
Is my school district required to provide my child with a private placement?
In some instances, the IDEIA authorizes school districts to place and fund students with IEPs at private day schools and residential schools. Our attorneys can assist you with determining whether an out placement may be appropriate and how to obtain one for your child based on their educational needs.
What can I do if my child is being bullied at school?
The Illinois Bullying Prevention statute outlines public and private schools’ obligations to students when they are being bullied. We are happy to discuss how to initiate or defend a bullying investigation for your child, appeal a determination of bullying should it be necessary to do so, and discuss other available options
We welcome the opportunity to discuss the particulars of your circumstance and look forward to the opportunity to support your goals.
