Loughrey & Associates (LADR) - FAQ's

1) Should I seek legal representation on behalf of myself or my child?
Probably if:

- your child is facing suspension or expulsion.
- your child is facing a “manifestation determination”.
- your child is reading significantly below grade level.
- your child’s behaviors interfere with their education.
- you are unsure about your child’s individual needs.
- you are unsure if your child’s individual needs are being met.
- your child has been recently assessed, or your child’s school district has not adequately assessed your child.
- your child has been refused or found ineligible for special education services.
- your child has not been making adequate progress with or without the support of special education and related services.
- your child’s school district has failed to provide the services and supports outlined in your child’s IEP.
- there is a specific feature or service of your child’s IEP that you do not agree is appropriate.
- you believe the services and supports offered by your child’s school are inadequate to allow your child to make meaningful progress.

2) Where can I seek help if I cannot afford to hire an attorney?

There are organizations that provide information and advocacy to individuals despite their ability to pay.  Some of those organizations and resources can be found on our resources page.  While we do not provide or guarantee any of the resources linked on our resources page, you may be able to obtain help through these resources.

3) What are your rates?

Our rates vary and are available during the no cost client consultation.

4)  What is the process by which I can obtain representation from Loughrey & Associates?

Step 1:  Call our office during business hours on weekdays. During your initial call you will be asked a series of background questions designed to give us a very basic picture of your child and potential dispute.  A free consultation with an attorney may be scheduled at this point, or after an attorney has reviewed your initial answers to background questions. 

Step 2:  Participate in a free consultation with the managing attorney, Tamara Loughrey. This may be handled via telephone or in person.  This free consultation will generally take approximately 30 minutes. 

Step 3:  Review and execute a contract or contracts for representation.  If after the free consultation we decide to offer you representation, we will provide you with a fee agreement to review. You will be afforded the opportunity to review the agreement and seek outside counsel regarding the agreement. You may propose changes and ask questions regarding the agreement as well.  If after review you decide to accept our offer of representation, then sign and return the fee agreement.  We will then execute and deliver a copy of the agreement to you. Only after you have a fully executed attorney client fee agreement will you be represented by an attorney from our office.

5) How long does it take to speak with or hire an attorney?

We try to return all calls and schedule consultations promptly.  Ms. Loughrey frequently speak with potential clients the same day of their calling the office, particularly when issues arise involving very short timelines, such as manifestation determinations and expulsions.  The process can move very quickly when necessary.  The entire process rarely requires more than a few days.

Education disputes and disputes with government agencies are fraught with very short timelines.  Do not delay contacting an attorney.  We provide no obligation initial consultations.