A Personal Message for Families of Children with Special Needs

Dear Parents,

My name is Mike Falater, and I’m a lawyer with IEP Defenders. I have the privilege of representing children with special needs and their families. 

Let me begin by saying this: you are your child’s greatest advocate. No one knows them better, loves them harder, or fights for them more fiercely than you. And that means something—especially in the world of education, healthcare, and disability rights, where systems are often complex and overwhelming.

I work with families every day who are navigating IEP meetings, service delays, evaluations, and in some cases, discrimination. I know how exhausting and emotional it can be. And I want you to know: you’re not alone.

Here are three things I want to leave you—three truths that I hope give you some clarity and power moving forward.

First: You have rights. And so does your child.

Under federal laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act—IDEA—your child has the right to a Free Appropriate Public Education. That means schools must meet their unique needs. Not just the minimum. Not just what's convenient. What they need. And if that’s not happening, you have the right to speak up, to challenge decisions, and to seek support.

Second: You don’t have to be a legal expert to be an effective advocate.

You don’t need a law degree to ask questions. You don’t need to know the entire education code to say, “This doesn’t feel right.” If your gut is telling you that your child isn’t getting what they need—listen to it. You have the right to request evaluations, to bring advocates to meetings, and to ask for written explanations. Use that voice.

Third: There are people and resources to help you.

Whether it’s special education attorneys, advocacy groups, or parent networks—there’s a community that has your back. You don’t have to do this alone. Reach out. Ask questions. Share your experiences. Because when families come together and support each other, that’s where change begins.

I’ll leave you with this: Every time you push for services, ask for an accommodation, or show up to a meeting ready to fight for your child—you are doing something powerful. You are making a system bend toward justice. That’s what advocacy looks like. That’s what love looks like.

Thank you for the love and energy you pour into your children. You inspire the work I do, and I’m proud to stand beside you.

Let’s keep moving forward—together.

Mike Falater, Esq.

Call us now at 743-IEP-HELP (437-4357) and schedule a complimentary consultation. We are here to help!