How Can WE Help You or Your Child?

My child is struggling... What do I do? Where can we go for answers? Who can help us?

You don’t have to do this alone. One of the most intimidating experiences can be having to navigate the turbulent waters of the public education system. When you have a child with special needs you and your child do have rights. Don’t let yourself get swept out to sea by a system that does not always tell you what help you are entitled to receive. Let me help.

"If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn."

-Ignacia Estrada

IEPs and FAPE

Every child is entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education under Federal Law. The IEP process is the primary vehicle by which a FAPE can be achieved. Unfortunately, it can also be a frustrating experience for parents who want what is best for their child. By obtaining the proper legal guidance you can ensure that your child gets the services they need to be successful.

Due Process Hearings

Unfortunately, not all disputes can be resolved at the school level. When it is time to take your case to court the proper venue under the IDEA is called a Due Process Hearing, which is usually a formal, contested, adversarial trial.  Before you request a Due Process Hearing you need to make certain that you have a plan, a goal, and help. I can guide you through this often difficult and stressful process and can represent both you and your child’s interests. Please don’t feel like you have to do this alone.

504 Plans

Section 504 is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. A section 504 Plan ensures that the child with a disability has equal access to an education. I can help you develop that plan.

Discipline Problems?

Many kids with learning disabilities develop behavior problems. If the school doesn’t teach them the skills they need, they become angry, frustrated, and depressed. Then the school labels them as “behavior disordered” or "emotionally disturbed." The right services and placement can help because "children do well if they can."

-Dr. Ross Greene

Bullying?

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 50% of children are bullied and 10% are victims of bullying on a regular basis. Moreover, kids who have learning disabilities are especially vulnerable to bullying problems. Your child has a right to a harassment free education experience, and I can help.

Who am I?

I am the proud father to a high functioning autistic boy and an attorney with over 14 years of experience in complex litigation. I began my career as an attorney advocating for the rights of students and parents in school districts across Southern California. But, prior to becoming an attorney I was both a high school and a middle school teacher, and still hold a California clear credential.

Having navigated the confusing and frustrating waters of school district administration, both as an educator and as a parent, I am fully aware of the struggles special-needs parents face every day in advocating for their children. As an experienced litigator having specialized in this area of law I am uniquely qualified professionally and personally to understand and help children with special needs and their parents.

Douglas Jacobs, Esq.

Douglas Jacobs headshot

Here’s How I Can Help:

"Behind the Scenes"

  • Records Evaluations
  • Assistance Writing Letters
  • IEP Preparation and Coaching
  • Parent Advocacy Training
  • Legal Rights Advisement

 

"Direct Involvement"

  • Direct Negotiations with Districts
  • IEP Meeting Participation
  • Services and Placement Advocacy
  • Mediation Representation
  • Manifestation Determination Hearing Representation
  • Due Process Hearings

 

Please call or e-mail TODAY to schedule a 30 minute, no obligation free case evaluation.

View more contact info here.