Education Law

Greater Danbury Education Law Attorneys

If you are a parent of a student, a teacher, or a school administrator involved in public or private school disciplinary proceedings, contact an experienced education lawyer at the Collins, Hannafin law firm in Danbury or Ridgefield. If your child is a special education student then he or she may also be entitled to compensation at a manifestation hearing, which may determine whether and to what extent the disciplinary proceeding may apply.

For parents of students involved in expulsion, suspension, or other disciplinary hearings, we can advise you and your child of your due process rights and represent your interests in administrative proceedings and appeals to district court as necessary. Whether your child's problem relates to attendance, classroom behavior, or possession of drugs or weapons at school, we can advise you about your options and work toward a favorable resolution that will serve the interests of the student and your family.

We also represent parents interested in advocating for their children in the areas of special education or fair and appropriate public education for students with disabilities or conditions such as autism or Asperger's syndrome. We can help you engage and make the most of the Planning and Placement Team (PPT) process provided by law so that your child is able to receive an education that takes due account of his or her specific circumstances.

As well as serving the needs of students and parents who need advice and representation for resolving legal or administrative problems at school, our Connecticut education law attorneys serve the needs of teachers, principals, coaches, counselors, and other education professionals whose employment or licenses are jeopardized by adverse action. We can help with the investigation, development, and presentation of your response to charges ranging from unauthorized absences to allegations of serious misconduct involving assault or sexual abuse. Our lawyers represent teachers and other school employees in proceedings initiated by their school board employers or by the state Board of Education, both at the administrative level and in district court.

For additional information about the scope of our education law practice, contact an attorney at either of the Collins, Hannafin offices.

Attorney Robert M. Opotzner and Stephanie Nickse lead our education law practice.