IEP Defenders: Free Special Education Attorneys in New York*

When your child isn't receiving the support they need, we're here to help. Our New York special education attorneys guide families through IEPs, evaluations, and disputes to protect every child's educational rights.

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Navigating Special Education in a New School District

If your child has been placed in a private school because the public school failed to provide an appropriate education, you may have the right to seek tuition reimbursement. Because tuition reimbursement matters differ from our standard due process representation, they require a separate engagement. We’re happy to discuss your circumstances and whether this type of claim may be available to your family.

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Your Child Deserves an Education That Fits Them

You know your child better than anyone. When the school system isn’t meeting them where they are, you need someone in your corner who understands both the law and what’s at stake. Our New York-based special education attorneys are dedicated advocates who stand with families in pursuit of fair treatment and focused interventions built around your child’s unique potential. 

We specialize in navigating the complexities of Individualized Education Program (IEP) and 504 accommodations for children with special needs, so you don’t have to face the legal and school systems alone.
IEP Defenders

The IEP Defenders Mission

At IEP Defenders, we strive to:

Their Future Shouldn’t Have to Wait for Bureaucracy

That’s why we offer NO COST LEGAL HELP* and fast action services built to get real results. Our special needs attorneys in New York walk alongside you every step of the way, including:

Keeping up with your school district’s educational guidelines is hard enough. It gets even more complicated when your child needs a specialized approach to truly thrive. If your child has been denied special education services, or something about their current IEP doesn’t sit right with you, IEP Defenders is here to help. Our special education lawyers in New York know exactly what it takes to achieve real results for your child, and we understand your commitment to helping them grow. We understand because we’ve been there.

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Why Families Choose IEP Defenders

We understand because we’ve been there. Many of our lawyers and members of our staff have been a part of the special education and IEP process as either a parent or student. That’s why we share your passion for equitable treatment and a supportive environment for every child.

Keeping up with your school district’s educational guidelines is hard enough. It gets even more complicated when your child needs a specialized approach to truly thrive. If your child has been denied special education services, or something about their current IEP doesn’t sit right with you, IEP Defenders is here to help. Our special education lawyers in New York know exactly what it takes to achieve real results for your child, and we understand your commitment to helping them grow. We understand because we’ve been there. 

IEP and 504 Accommodation Services

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Qualifies a Child for an IEP in New York?

Special education in New York is governed by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Article 89 of the New York Education Law, and the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, including Part 200. These laws establish the rights of students with disabilities and the responsibilities of school districts to provide appropriate educational services.

Children with disabilities are protected by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and New York’s special education regulations. While these laws provide important protections, navigating the process can be overwhelming for parents. Whether you’re requesting an evaluation, preparing for an IEP meeting, or challenging a school district’s decision, our attorneys help families understand their rights and advocate for the services their child deserves.

Focused special education measures are overseen through the use of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans. However, it can be difficult to tell if all of your student’s rights are being addressed appropriately in these plans. Investigating legal requirements, assessing IEP implementation, and filing complaints are complex processes that call for legal expertise.

If you’re struggling with your child’s IEP, getting the right help makes this process smoother and puts the focus back on your child’s needs.

Each student with disabilities must be provided with a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).

No. After diagnosis, the school will conduct a separate educational evaluation to determine which services may be needed and whether your child qualifies for an IEP.

Looking for additional answers? Visit our FAQ page.

Our New York Team

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Naomi Barerra, Esq.

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Kathleen Ireland, Esq.

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Maliaca Wong, Esq.

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Tamaryn Da Pointe, Esq.

Contact IEP Defenders Today

You shouldn’t have to spend time questioning and worrying about your child’s education. Contact our expert special education attorneys in New York and get the help you deserve.