Special Education Attorney

Job Overview:

A law firm specializing in high-quality legal representation for school districts, charter schools, and SELPAs is seeking Special Education Attorneys to join its team in the Ventura office or virtually for the San Diego and Ventura locations. The ideal candidates will have experience in special education law, Section 504, and general student matters, with a focus on managing complex cases, including due process hearings and legal proceedings. Attorneys will be responsible for analyzing student records, representing clients in hearings, and providing proactive legal solutions in the field of special education.

Location:

• San Diego, CA

Duties:

• Project Management: Manage and prioritize multiple cases simultaneously, ensuring deadlines are met and internal objectives are achieved.
• Legal Analysis & Investigation: Analyze student records (IEPs, assessments, and relevant documents) to build defenses and propose proactive solutions for clients.
• Hearing Preparation & Representation: Prepare and manage all aspects of administrative due process hearings, including drafting complaints, preparing motions, attending pre-hearing conferences, and engaging in direct and cross-examination of witnesses.
• Litigation Support: Provide comprehensive legal support for federal court litigation when applicable, managing discovery, depositions, and other related tasks.
• Collaboration & Communication: Work closely with clients, including school administrators and special education staff, to align case strategies. Professionally interact with opposing counsel, mediators, families, and other agencies.
• Training & Education: Conduct training sessions for school staff on compliance with special education laws, including IDEA and Section 504.
• Mediation & Compliance: Attend mediations and respond to state and federal compliance complaints from the California Department of Education and Office for Civil Rights.

Requirements:

• Experience: 3-5 years of legal experience, preferably focusing on special education law, administrative hearings, or litigation. Experience with due process hearings is highly preferred.
• Skills: Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple cases and meet tight deadlines. Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills are essential.
• Mindset: Strong investigative mindset with the ability to analyze complex student records and legal documents, while being sensitive to student and parent needs.
• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal issues to non-legal stakeholders.
• Travel: Ability to travel to meet clients in various counties, as required for each office location.
• Team-Oriented: Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team and provide client-focused legal solutions.

Education:

• J.D. from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Active California State Bar License required.

Skills:

• Expertise in special education law, including IDEA and Section 504.
• Strong legal research, writing, and drafting skills.
• Ability to manage and prioritize complex caseloads.
• Experience in administrative due process hearings and litigation.
• Effective communication with both legal and non-legal stakeholders.
• Team-oriented and proactive approach to client service.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary (commensurate with experience).
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with matching contributions.
• Paid time off (PTO).
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Collaborative and client-focused work environment.