The Wrightslaw Way

Must mediation take place first – before a parent files a State Complaint? I live in Wyoming. The specifics and mechanics of mediation vary from state to state. In many states, the regulations permit mediation prior to filing either a complaint or a request for a due process hearing. You need to find and research your […]

If you have attended a Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy program or Boot Camp, you know we talk about conflict and other obstacles to effective advocacy. We ask a series of questions. 1. How many of you believe parents and school personnel should be able to work together on behalf of the child, without […]

We are about to go into mediation and have concerns and questions about the process. Q: Can parents tape record the meeting? If the district will have an attorney present at mediation, can one be appointed for the parent, at no charge? Mediation is a problem solving process that is confidential. Success depends on both […]

TODAY! VA Senators will be discussing Senate Bill 689 when they meet at 2 pm. The bill would limit the legal rights of people with disabilities who are represented by the Virginia Office for Protection and Advocacy (VOPA).    This is a dangerous bill that will take away the civil rights of people with developmental and […]