What You
Need to Know
The IEP team says no.
The Waiver says no.
VR says no.
A hundred different people and programs tell you why something can't be done.
After a while, you start wondering whether you'll ever be able to get what you need.
Disability service systems are complicated. They have rules, deadlines, procedures, and acronyms that seem designed to confuse people.
But here's the important thing:
When the System Says No, You Have Rights.
Schools can be challenged. Medicaid decisions can be appealed. VR decisions can be reviewed. Guardianship is not the only option.
The first answer doesn't have to be the final answer.
Make sure you know your rights.
Questions about your situation?
Reach out.
No matter where you live, I'm here to help
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Special Education
What You Need to Know
Schools must identify, evaluate, and provide appropriate services to students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
What Many Families Don't Realize
- You are a member of the IEP team.
- You can request independent evaluations.
- The IEP is a plan, not a guarantee.
- Transition planning should start early.
The school does not get the final word.
You can request mediation, file a state complaint, or ask for a due process hearing. If the school is not meeting its obligations, there are steps you can take.
Medicaid Services and Supports
What You Need to Know
Medicaid can help pay for services and supports that make community living possible, including waiver services and self-direction.
What Many Families Don't Realize
- A denial or reduction can be challenged.
- Written notices are important.
- You may have fair hearing rights.
- Self-direction may give you more control and flexibility.
A denial is not the end of the story.
Medicaid decisions can be appealed. If services are denied, reduced, or delayed, you have the right to challenge that decision.
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
What You Need to Know
VR is a state program that helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep meaningful employment.
What Many Families Don't Realize
- You have the right to participate in planning.
- VR can support education and training.
- You can disagree and challenge decisions.
- Employment goals should reflect your strengths and interests.
You do not have to accept a decision that doesn't make sense.
You can seek mediation, request a fair hearing, and challenge decisions that prevent you from reaching your employment goals.
Guardianship and Supported Decision-Making
What You Need to Know
There are alternatives to guardianship that can provide support while preserving a person's legal rights and decision-making authority.
What Many Families Don't Realize
- Turning 18 does not mean losing rights.
- Supported Decision-Making works for many people.
- Guardianship should be a last resort.
- Less restrictive options may be enough.
Turning 18 does not mean giving up your rights.
Guardianship is not the only option. Supported Decision-Making and other alternatives can provide support while preserving independence.
Complaints, Appeals and Hearings
What You Need to Know
Every system has a process for resolving disagreements and challenging decisions.
What Many Families Don't Realize
- You have the right to file a complaint.
- You can request mediation.
- You can ask for a fair hearing.
- You can bring someone with you.
You have the right to be heard and to challenge unfair decisions.
Know your options. Use the process. Don't give up.
How I Can Help
STRATEGY
Figure out what the system is required to do and build a plan to get there.
ADVOCACY
Prepare for and attend meetings, hearings, and difficult conversations.
REPRESENTATION
Stand beside you and make sure your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
FOLLOW-THROUGH
Stay with you until the work is done.
LET’S TALK ABOUT IT
Reach out for a free consultation.
No matter where you live, we can work together.
LET’S TALK ABOUT IT