Associate Attorney Special Education Advocacy

A law firm seeks a dedicated Associate Attorney to join a dynamic team advocating for students with disabilities. Based in Pittsburgh, PA (hybrid remote option), this role involves championing the rights of children under federal education statutes.

Duties

• Handle a full caseload involving the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

• Conduct client interviews with families and students to gather relevant facts and background information

• Draft detailed memoranda, legal briefs, and due process complaints

• Represent clients at Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, mediations, and administrative hearings before the Office for Dispute Resolution

• File complaints and negotiate resolutions on behalf of students challenging special education services or accommodations

• Collaborate with colleagues to develop effective advocacy strategies and ensure continuity of client support

Requirements

• Admission to the Pennsylvania bar, or eligibility for reciprocal admission

• Excellent verbal advocacy and negotiation abilities

• Strong legal research and writing skills, with the capacity to produce persuasive, well-organized documents

• Capacity to manage all phases of a caseload independently, from intake through resolution

• Commitment to advancing civil rights and educational equity for students with disabilities

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school

Certifications

• Active Pennsylvania law license (or eligibility for reciprocal licensure)

• Familiarity with special education law (IDEA, Section 504) is preferred but not mandatory; candidates with prior disability rights or children’s rights experience will be given special consideration

Skills

• Proficiency in drafting legal memoranda, briefs, and administrative filings

• Effective client-interviewing and counseling techniques, particularly with families navigating special education systems

• Competence in advocacy during IEP meetings, mediations, and administrative hearings

• Strong organizational aptitude to track multiple cases and deadlines concurrently

• Ability to work collaboratively in a supportive, team-oriented environment

Benefits

• 401(k) plan

• Dental insurance

• Flexible scheduling options

• Health insurance

The law firm helps families of disabled children in getting their children the education they deserve. Its practice areas include special education, behavioral support, autism, discipline, changing school placements, and dyslexia. Its team of attorneys has years of experience in special education matters. The firm's office is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.