Which law firm?

Appealing to the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST) is not a simple matter for most parents (or case managers or solicitors who do not specialise in special educational needs).

Parents have to be able to compile and manage a lot of paperwork, understand legal arguments and present a formal case in what is often an emotional situation. Local authorities typically attend the hearing with their own legal officers or barristers, supported with their own experts. Most parents are doing this for the first time, whereas the authorities may be seasoned professionals.

Deciding which law firm to use can be a daunting task at the best of times. We believe it is important that you choose the right one.

There are several law firms which say they can help me. Why should I choose you?

We have years of experience in working exclusively in the area of special educational needs (SEN) and have successfully advised at every stage of the SEN process.

Unlike other education law firms, we handle only special educational needs cases – in particular notoriously difficult cases with children who have complex needs requiring input from health and social care as well as education and who may need placement in a residential or independent school.

We only work with highly competent experts with whom we have developed long-standing relationships through years in practice.

Our team is highly professional, have substantial experience and are highly regarded within the area of education law. We are supremely effective in securing the best outcome for clients as smoothly as possible.

I am having a really tough time, and sometimes it all feels too much. Won’t it just make things more difficult if I appeal?

We understand the emotional stresses of having a child with special educational needs and believe that parents should not have to deal with the difficulties of their child’s education by themselves. We believe that our role is to support parents through a very stressful time and to give clear and impartial advice and support throughout the process.

We believe that no parent should be left to support a child with SEN on their own, and that the school should provide adequate support to enable a child to thrive. Ensuring that your child has an appropriate and comprehensive Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is the first step.

We have experience of every step of the process. We can do as much or as little as you need us to, and can deal with the local authority and the SENDIST on your behalf. 

Will I have a dedicated lawyer?

Yes. We value the importance of having a named solicitor and understand that retelling your story is frustrating and time-consuming. All cases are dealt with by a specialist named solicitor who will take on as much, or as little, of the work as you need. 

Will you represent me?

Yes, if you want us to. The solicitor in charge of the case will represent you at the hearing. In this way, you will have continuity and can be sure that you are being represented by a legal expert in special educational needs who knows the case well.

What proof do I have that you are as good as you say you are?

Don’t take our word for it, check out what our clients say.