Special Education Attorney

Job Overview:

A law firm specializing in high-quality legal representation for school districts, charter schools, and SELPAs is seeking experienced Special Education Attorneys to join their Ventura office or work virtually for the San Diego and Ventura locations. The ideal candidates will have a strong background in special education law, Section 504, and general student matters, and the ability to manage complex legal issues involving IEPs, due process hearings, and related litigation. This position offers opportunities to work on significant cases with a focus on client-centered legal solutions for educational institutions.

Location:

• Ventura, California

Duties:

• Project Management: Effectively manage multiple cases, prioritize tasks, and meet legal deadlines.
• Legal Analysis & Investigation: Analyze student records, including IEPs and assessments, to build defenses and offer proactive legal solutions for clients.
• Hearing Preparation & Representation: Prepare for and represent clients in administrative due process hearings, including drafting complaints, preparing motions, attending pre-hearing conferences, and managing witness preparation and examinations.
• Litigation Support: Provide support in federal court litigation, including managing discovery, depositions, and litigation-related tasks.
• Collaboration & Communication: Work closely with clients (school administrators, educators, special education staff) to ensure proper case management and alignment. Collaborate with opposing counsel, mediators, families, and relevant agencies as needed.
• Training & Education: Conduct training sessions for school staff on special education law compliance, including IDEA and Section 504.
• Mediation & Compliance: Attend mediations and address state and federal compliance complaints from the California Department of Education and the Office for Civil Rights.

Requirements:

• Experience: 3-5 years of legal experience, preferably in special education law, administrative hearings, or litigation.
• Skills: Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage tight deadlines and multiple cases simultaneously. Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills are essential.
• Mindset: Investigative mindset with the ability to analyze complex student records and legal documents. Sensitivity to student needs and parent concerns is key.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders (such as school staff, parents, and administrators).
• Travel: Willingness to travel for client meetings (Ventura office candidates will travel to Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and Orange Counties; San Diego office may require occasional travel to Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange Counties).
• Team-Oriented: Ability to collaborate in a proactive, client-focused team environment.

Education:

• J.D. from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Admission to the California State Bar.

Skills:

• Proficiency in special education law, including IDEA and Section 504.
• Experience with due process hearings and legal proceedings.
• Strong investigative, research, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage complex cases and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary (based on experience and location).
• Flexible work schedule (full-time and part-time options available).
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with matching contributions.
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Collaborative and client-focused work environment.