Special Education Attorney in Katy, Texas

All children have a right to a quality education. However, not all children learn the same way or at the same speed. Understanding this is critical to making sure children with special needs receive appropriate educational resources and support. Under Texas law, special education is considered crucial for the development and success of children with unique learning challenges.

Swanson Law, PLLC is experienced in helping families gain the knowledge and confidence they need to advocate for their child and participate in the development of their child's special education.

Located in Katy, Texas, Attorney Jennifer Swanson serves clients in and around the Houston area. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.

What to Know About
Special Education Law

In Texas, special education law is primarily governed by both federal and state statutes, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Texas Education Code.

The IDEA mandates that all children with disabilities have the right to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) that meets their individual educational needs. Texas state law specifies the rights of students with disabilities and outlines the procedures that schools must follow to ensure compliance. These include:

• Child Find: Schools must actively seek out and evaluate students from kindergarten to 12th grade who may have disabilities that require special education services. This can include reviewing academic and behavioral records, conducting assessments, or seeking input from parents or healthcare professionals.
  

• Individualized Education Program (IEP): An IEP is a written document that outlines the specific educational goals and accommodations for a child with disabilities. This plan is developed collaboratively by the child's parents, teachers, administrators, and any relevant specialists. The goal of an IEP is to provide the necessary support for a student to be successful in their studies.
  

• Least restrictive environment (LRE): This concept requires schools to educate students with disabilities in the most inclusive environment possible. This means that students should be placed in a general education classroom with appropriate accommodations and modifications whenever feasible.
  

• Procedural safeguards: Texas state law has measures in place to protect the rights of special education students and their parents. They include notification of evaluations, parent consent for services, the right to request an independent educational evaluation, and the right to dispute decisions made by the school.

Services Offered by Swanson Law, PLLC

Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)

One of the essential components of special education law is the development of an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This customized document outlines the education plan for a child with special needs, detailing specific goals and the services to be provided. Attorney Swanson strives to help you craft comprehensive IEPs that meet your child’s unique challenges.

She will work with you to advocate for your child's needs during Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) meetings and help you stay informed and empowered throughout the process. Her role includes addressing parent concerns, negotiating suitable services, and making sure the IEP is implemented effectively.

504 Plans

In addition to IEPs, some children may qualify for a Section 504 plan under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This plan provides accommodations for students with disabilities and grants them equal access to education. Attorney Jennifer Swanson will strive to help you draft a 504 plan that aligns with your child's needs and complies with federal regulations.

By understanding the specific requirements and implications of both IEPs and 504 plans, Swanson Law, PLLC offers experienced guidance on the best course of action to secure the necessary support for your child.

Early Childhood Intervention

Early intervention is vital for children with developmental delays or disabilities. Texas provides various services to assist children from birth to three years old through the early childhood intervention (ECI) program. Swanson Law, PLLC aims to guide families through the ECI process, helping them understand their rights and the services available to their young children.

This early support can significantly influence a child's development and enhance their prospects for success in later educational settings.

Early Childhood Special Education

Early childhood special education (ECSE) services are available through public schools for children aged three to six. These services are designed to meet the unique developmental needs of young children with disabilities and provide intensive support in preparation for kindergarten or other educational settings.

Attorney Swanson will work with you throughout the ECSE process to help you advocate for your child's specific needs and the educational support they need.

Special Education for Children 6–18

Texas offers a range of special education services for children aged six to eighteen through public schools. These include but are not limited to:

• Special education instruction and related services such as speech therapy or occupational therapy

• Assistive technology devices and services

• Transition planning for life beyond high school

Attorney Swanson will work with you and your family to make sure your child receives the appropriate educational resources and support necessary for their success in school and beyond.

Special Education Testing and Evaluations

The assessment process for special education is a critical step for determining a child's eligibility. Swanson Law, PLLC aims to help families seeking special education services for their children by making sure any tests or evaluations are conducted appropriately.

Attorney Swanson will thoroughly review the evaluation results, advocate for comprehensive testing, and seek additional assessments when necessary.

ARD Meetings

ARD meetings are held to determine whether a child qualifies for special education services and develop an appropriate IEP or 504 plan. Swanson Law, PLLC offers experienced representation during ARD meetings to help ensure your child's rights are protected and their needs are met.

In some instances, disputes may arise regarding the services provided or the decisions made at ARD meetings. Attorney Swanson offers robust representation at due process hearings, including preparing all necessary documentation, helping the family build a compelling case, and representing the family’s interests before a hearing officer.

Guardianship Services

Establishing guardianship can be crucial for parents of children with special needs as it allows a guardian to make decisions about the child’s education and welfare. If you need assistance with uncontested guardianship, Swanson Law, PLLC offers legal guidance in Fort Bend County and Harris County.

How Can Swanson Law, PLLC Help?

Swanson Law, PLLC is much more than just a law firm. Attorney Swanson focuses on fostering strong client-attorney relationships. She believes open communication and collaboration with families, educators, and service providers yield the best outcomes for children with special needs.

By taking the time to understand each child's unique circumstances, she can help craft tailored strategies that address each child's specific educational requirements.

This personalized approach can benefit the child's educational trajectory and empower your family. Knowledge is a powerful tool, and Swanson Law, PLLC is dedicated to equipping you with the information and resources necessary to advocate for your children's needs.