California Education Law Attorney Asserts Student Rights

Skilled lawyer offers representation to protect your child’s education

I became passionate about education law after practicing criminal law. I saw that some of my clients could not read well, or were missing other skills because they did not receive appropriate services in school when they were younger. Parents often do not realize that school issues are legal issues and that parents and children have rights.

School law has unique procedures and terminology that can be difficult to understand. I am knowledgeable about education law and procedures. I have represented children with special needs ranging from ADD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, speech and processing disorders and behavioral issues.

Students and their parents invest a great deal in their education, yet decisions at educational institutions are often arbitrary and indefensible.. I handle a wide range of disputes related to education, including:

  • Access to special education
  • Ensuring students receive a free, appropriate, public education and services in accordance with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan
  • Access to student records
  • Represent children facing disciplinary action by the school, including suspension or expulsion due to behavior related to his/her disability
  • Due process violations
  • Fourth Amendment search issues
  • Harassment

I work with students and parents on conflicts at all levels of the educational system including teachers, administrators, institutions, school contractors, school districts, and mental health providers.

Creative legal advocate helps clients resolve education conflicts

Because students and parents have so much invested in their relationship with their school district or educational institution, my general approach is to mend relationships by seeking an agreeable resolution through negotiation or mediation. However, when opposing parties are not cooperative, I consider any available legal remedy. My primary goal is protecting my clients’ rights and ensuring students have the educational experience they deserve.

Supporting students with special education needs

When your child has special education needs, the first step is to obtain an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which describes a precise plan of action for teachers and other school personnel. Once the IEP is in place, I help parents ensure that the program is properly implemented to address their children's special needs. I also work with you to secure and maintain related services that your child needs and deserves.

Contact an education lawyer in California who understands your concerns

At Law Office of Chitra Ramanathan in Fremont, I am dedicated to protecting student rights throughout California. I represent students and their parents in all types of education law issues. For assistance, call 510-460-1494 or contact my law office online.