The rights of a child - your child

Special education law is that area of the federal and state substantive law dealing with the rights of disabled children (physical, emotional, or mental) to a free and appropriate public education. Under the federal legislation known as IDEA 2004 (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004), disabled children, their parents, and the school system all function within the parameters of a team-designed IEP - individualized educational programs.

Or that's the way it's supposed to work.

The reality is fraught with high emotion, frustration, and an adversarial environment. That's why an attorney who knows this complex area of the law and is trained to advocate in a non-threatening manner can be a family's best friend. (Put simply: it's different than arguing in a courtroom, and a different approach is required.)

Why hire an attorney?

Because it is a highly complex area of the law. Because there's so much at stake - nothing less than your child's future. Because allowing someone to fight for you and your child allows you to be a parent and focus on your child's needs. Because nothing can sap your energy and create explosive stress levels like a dispute with a school district can.

Someone slightly removed from the situation who can advocate for your child's needs and rights in those intimidating, last-minute meetings and those anxiety-inducing due process hearings - that's the solution that allows you to parent, the school professionals to teach, and your child to learn.

What should I do now?

For more information about South Carolina and special education law, see this page of our website.

If you'd like to arrange for a consultation with an attorney who understands and cares passionately about children's rights, call (843) 283-4840. Internet-based or telephone conference solutions are available for those parents who are outside the Myrtle Beach/Grand Strand area.