In It: Raising Kids Who Learn Differently

An attorney’s advice on special education disputes

Apr 25, 2024

Special education attorney and ADHD expert Robert Tudisco shares valuable insights on handling disputes over Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans. He discusses the importance of early intervention, parental advocacy, and legal support in resolving conflicts with schools. Tudisco emphasizes empowering families to effectively advocate for children with learning and thinking differences.

29:44

Creator website

Episode guests

Robert Tudisco

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Parents may benefit from hiring a special education attorney to navigate disputes over IEPs and 504 plans.

Clear communication and documentation with educators and open dialogue with children are crucial before pursuing legal action in special education disputes.

Deep dives

Disputes Over IEPs or 504 Plans

Parents often seek help when disputes arise over the classification, services, or placement of their child within the education system. Common issues revolve around the need for more support and services outlined in Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) versus 504 plans. Communication breakdowns often lead to tension between parents and school districts, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic resolutions for the benefit of the children involved.

Introduction

3min

Navigating Common Issues in Special Education Disputes

3min

Exploring Specialized Placement in Special Education Disputes

2min

Navigating Legal Battles in Special Education Disputes

10min

Navigating Special Education Disputes

12min

When families are in a dispute about their child’s special education, it can be tricky to know how to handle things. There are big emotions involved, and the law around IEPs, or Individualized Education Programs, can be confusing.

But in some cases, it might help to work with a special education attorney.

In this episode of In It, Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome special education attorney Robert Tudisco. Rob was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. He is an expert in special education law and disability advocacy.

Listen to learn why families may hire a special education attorney — and what steps to think about before engaging a lawyer.

To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.

We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.

Related resources:

Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more