Advocating for Children With Special Needs in Michigan Schools

If you are the parent or loved one of a special needs child, you know that raising a child with a disability can be extremely rewarding. You also know that having a child with a physical or mental impairment can be very challenging. In addition to your parenting responsibilities, you most likely have to manage numerous medical and therapy appointments.

Similarly, the job of being an advocate for your child at school can be demanding, yet totally necessary. Special education laws and procedures are very complicated and difficult to understand. As a result, getting the services your child needs at school can prove to be a frustrating experience. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other state and federal special education laws, schools have special obligations to students with learning disabilities and other medical conditions.

At Demorest Law Firm, PLLC, we help parents advocate for these educational rights. Our experienced attorneys will negotiate with school officials, assist you with mediation of disputes, and represent you at all due process hearings.

Qualifying for Special Education Services in Michigan
The first step to securing special education services for any child is requesting an evaluation from your school district. School districts are required to provide assessments and services even if your child has not reached school age. If you disagree with the results of the evaluation, you may request an independent evaluation of your child’s disability and any effect on academic performance and learning. Qualifying conditions for special education services, include, but are not limited to:

• Learning disability
• Autism spectrum disorders
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Emotional and behavioral issues
• Down’s syndrome
• Hearing loss, speech problems or visual impairment
• Brain injury or mental impairment
• Other serious health issues and disabilities

Helping You Obtain Services Under Special Education Laws
If you feel your school district is not providing the services your child needs, or is not providing an appropriate education in the least restrictive environment, we can help safeguard your child’s right to an education. Our attorneys are fully prepared to address the following issues:

• Disputes over independent educational plans (IEPS)
• Section 504 plans
• Disability accommodations
• Dealing with behavioral problems
• Extended school year services
• Speech therapy and occupational therapy services

Contact Us for a Consultation
For more information about our services, call and ask for Attorney Michael R. Dorfman at 248-723-5500 or by e-mail at mike@demolaw.com to schedule your free initial consultation to discuss your child’s special education law needs.