I just got some papers threw the mail on my sons IEP.They are saying cause i didnt ask for something to be writen in a certain way (if i understand it correctly) that they now dont have to give him a autistic mentor aid.So what I need to know now is, because I dont know how to go about this.WHat kind of lawyer would I look for to help me with this stuff? I tried an avocate but they said they dont have the fundings to help everyone and they wont go to any meetings or anything, just give a bit of advice.I need to find someone to help me untill my poor little brain can learn all this stuff.
If you want a lawyer, look for a special education lawyer. Your local Autism Society should have a list of lawyers in your area. You probably only need a paralegal to accompany you to the IEP and help acclimate you so you aren't taken advantage of. Ask any prospective attorney if they have paralegals in their office that you can work with. A paralegal is cheaper, too. Bear in mind, that most attorney's require a retainer, which can be as large as ,500. Of course they refund any unused funds, but generally speaking you only need to retain an attorney if you are planning to sue. In your case, an advocate should suffice, and there is no reason an advocate shouldn't accompany you to an IEP. Find another advocate who is more willing to work with you and walk you through the process, and you may also want to look into the book "From Emotions to Advocacy", which has been recommeded several times on this site.I second all of Karen's advice. I would find an advocate first (a private one
that you would pay, by me 5-250 for the initial work-up, then rates vary
for meetings, etc....still WAY cheaper than an attorney!) and see if anything
comes of that. Then, go the lawyer route if need be. That book really is
GREAT to btw!!
Copyright Autism-PDD.net