Description:
About the Firm:Barger & Gaines is one of the largest firms in the tri-state area with a dedicated full-time team focused on special education law and advocacy. Our primary mission is to represent children and families to secure appropriate educational services. Our attorneys have extensive experience in education law, including special education, bullying, student discipline, discrimination, guardianship, and special needs planning. We serve families in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Michigan.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Special Education Attorney to join our legal team. This attorney will work exclusively on special education matters, advocating for students with disabilities and their families to ensure access to a free, appropriate public education. The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and related federal and state education laws, along with a genuine passion for protecting the rights of children with special needs.
Responsibilities:
- Provide legal counsel to families on all matters related to special education laws and regulations, including eligibility, evaluations, Individualized Education Programs, placement, and related services.
- Represent clients in impartial hearings, mediations, resolution sessions, and court proceedings concerning special education disputes with school districts.
- Review and analyze IEPs, psychoeducational evaluations, progress reports, and other student records to assess the appropriateness of educational programs.
- Advocate for appropriate placements, including in-district programs and private out-of-district special education schools, and pursue tuition reimbursement when warranted.
- Draft legal documents including due process complaints, motions, briefs, correspondence, and settlement agreements with clarity and precision.
- Conduct thorough legal research to support case strategies and stay current on developments in special education law, including relevant case law and regulatory guidance.
- Negotiate settlements and agreements with school districts on behalf of clients to achieve favorable outcomes.
- Collaborate with educational professionals, school district personnel, government agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Attend Committee on Special Education (CSE) and Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) meetings with families as needed.
- Maintain detailed case files and documentation in a well-organized manner within the firm's case management system.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Admission to the New York State Bar in good standing.
- Demonstrated experience practicing special education law, including representation at impartial hearings and familiarity with IDEA, Section 504, and state education regulations.
- Strong legal research, writing, and drafting skills.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage a substantial caseload with attention to detail while handling multiple priorities effectively.
- A genuine commitment to advocating for children with disabilities and their families.
Preferred:
- Admission to the New Jersey and/or Connecticut State Bar.
- Experience working with families in New York City Department of Education matters.
- Familiarity with the administrative hearing process in New York, New Jersey, and/or Connecticut.
- Prior experience in a law firm environment dedicated to education law or disability rights.
Pay: $60,000.00 - $135,000.00 per year
