Fighting Alongside Families Since 1989
Your child is entitled to receive accommodations, services and an education designed for academic success
My law practice is devoted to advocating for special needs children to obtain the services and the education to which they are entitled. My core belief is that with an education and services crafted specifically for your child, the potential to grow and to participate meaningfully in the community inside and outside your home is unlocked.
1/2 Hr Free
Consultation!
The IEP
Federal and State Law (IDEA and the New York Education Law) provide that children with disabilities are entitled to a Free and Appropriate Education (FAPE). A FAPE consists of specialized education and related services designed to meet a student’s unique needs
A school district offers a FAPE by providing personalized instruction with sufficient support and services to permit your child to benefit educationally from that instruction.
The IEP meeting is held every year to develop your child’s IEP. You attend the meeting. Your district and school representatives attend the IEP meeting.
If a school district fails to provide a FAPE to a student with a disability, parents may enroll their child in a private school and seek funding/reimbursement for the cost of the program. You can seek services while attending public school.
I Stand By Your Side Every Step of the Way.
​
I provide a clear road to action.
I am dedicated to ensuring that every family understands their rights and obligations under The Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). I explain the school district’s evaluations, reports and documents. I listen to your concerns and questions, and together we work to obtain the education and services that will enable your child to progress.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
Here's What We Do Together:
​
-
Before the IEP meeting, I prepare you to answer questions and request what is important for your child's progress. I attend the IEP meeting so you have a fighter by your side.
​
-
You may have the right to seek reimbursement for private school tuition and for the Department of Education to pay the school directly.
​
-
I fight with you to obtain appropriate accommodations for your child's transportation to school that includes limited time travel, air conditioning, and a paraprofessional.​
​
-
I provide referrals to experienced professionals I have worked with for many years to identify suspected disabilities.
​
-
Together we obtain private evaluations that identify appropriate programs and school settings. This includes related services of speech, counseling, occupational and physical therapy. This also includes tests and exam accommodations.
​
-
I assist in requesting a free evaluation from the Department of Education. ​
Did You Know?
​
The Facts:
​
Each child is a unique learner.
When the Department of Education cannot provide an appropriate school and classroom, you have the right to seek reimbursement of your private school tuition and to have the tuition paid directly to your child’s school by the Department of Education.
​
This Includes:
​
-
Academics
-
Student-Teacher Ratio​
-
Different teaching methodologies individually crafted for your child
-
A 12-month school year
-
High School until age 21
-
High School Diploma
-
​
-
Technology​, in the form of:
-
Touch-screen Tablet​
-
External Keyboard
-
Specific Software/ Applications
-
Word prediction and auditory feedback
-
Notation/Screen Reader apps
-
​
-
Social Skills​
-
Friendships​
-
Self-Esteem
-
Community
-
Adaptive Skills
-
​
-
Life Skills​
-
Money management​
-
Meal preparation
-
Community outings
-
Travel training
-
​
-
Vocational Training
-
Work-based learning​
-
Career
-
Technical education
-
Transitional Planning
-
Vocational assessments
-
​
1/2 Hr Free
Consultation!
About Adriane
I have practiced law for over 25 years. I received my Bachelor of Arts at Barnard College, Columbia University and my Juris Doctor from Brooklyn Law School in 1989 .
​
It was not so long ago that children with disabilities had no right to an education. Providing opportunities for children to grow academically and socially, and to interact meaningfully at home and in the community creates a new way forward for you and your child.
After working as an Associate at Webster and Sheffield, I dedicated my professional life to public interest law and worked in the Bronx and Brooklyn Family Courts for the New York City Law Department. I helped children with physical and intellectual disabilities obtain services, and an education for social and academic progress. I also represented children in disciplinary hearings. As Deputy Chief, I continued to work alongside families whose children were developmentally delayed due to environmental exposure to toxins like mold and lead. I have also litigated medical malpractice jury trials, personal injury, and housing matters. I have worked as both a plaintiff and defense personal injury attorney.
My experience as a litigator and keen understanding of working cooperatively when necessary, coupled with a long career working for and against the City of New York, has proved invaluable.