Associate Attorney Student Services and Special Education

Job Overview: A well-regarded law firm is seeking an Associate Attorney specializing in Student Services and Special Education to join its team in San Diego. This position involves providing legal support to K-12 schools and community colleges, focusing on individualized education programs (IEP), policy development, and compliance with state and federal regulations. The attorney will have the opportunity to work in a non-litigious, collaborative environment, helping educational institutions meet their legal obligations while fostering student success.

Duties:

• Advise and assist K-12 schools and community colleges with individualized education program (IEP) processes.
• Provide guidance on policy review, revisions, and implementation for educational institutions.
• Present workshops and trainings for educational staff on compliance and special education-related matters.
• Respond to state and federal compliance complaints and administrative due process hearings.
• Develop client relationships and offer strategic legal counsel outside of traditional litigation settings.
• Draft and review legal documents, including policies, procedures, and responses to complaints.
• Stay updated on changes in education law and special education regulations.

Requirements:

• Minimum of 2 years of legal experience, with a focus on education law or special education.
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients and provide thoughtful legal advice.
• Must be a member in good standing of the California State Bar.
• Experience working with K-12 schools and community colleges (preferred).

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Active California State Bar membership (required).

Skills:

• Expertise in education law, particularly in the areas of student services and special education.
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively with educational institutions and their staff.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Capable of handling multiple projects in a dynamic environment.

This law firm has offices in Los Angeles, Oakland, Fresno, San Diego, Inland Empire and Sacramento. It was established eight years ago and has more than 60 attorneys in the team working in the areas of litigation, charter schools, student services and special education, business, facilities and real estate, eMatters, higher education, labor and employment and governance and leadership. The firm believes in working towards a nation that provides high quality education.