Special Education Lawyer
I am dedicated to helping students with disabilities get access to the services and support that they need to succeed in the classroom.
My work on behalf of students is comprehensive and ranges from one-time informational consultations with parents to litigation in due process hearings and federal court.
News & Events
2023 Summer Camps
Indiana Resource Center for Autism list of 2023 Summer Camps and Therapeutic Riding Programs.
State of Indiana Alternate Diploma
IEP
An individualized education program, or IEP, is a written document that governs a child’s special education program. To be eligible for an IEP, the student must have a qualifying disability (such as autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, visual impairment etc.) that affects his or her learning.
Section 504 Plan
A Section 504 plan is a written document provided by the school district that sets out the reasonable accommodations and modifications necessary to ensure that a student with a disability receives equal access to the learning environment.
MDR
When a child with a disability violates a code of student conduct, the school must hold a manifestation determination review (MDR) before the student can be suspended or expelled. The purpose of an MDR is to determine whether the student’s conduct was a “manifestation” of the disability.
Originally hailing from Chicago’s south side, Pamela Cleary has practiced law in Indiana since 2001 and in Illinois since 2013.
A graduate of the College of St. Francis and Indiana University’s Maurer School of Law, Pam is a former prosecutor and passionate advocate for children. Her experience representing children in special education cases began with two of her own and quickly blossomed into her legal practice.
If your child’s school is failing to comply with the law, I can help.
- Initial eligibility for special education
- IEP modification/enforcement
- Section 504 plan issues
- Due process hearings
- Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) meetings
- Independent evaluations
- Civil rights/disability discrimination
- Appeal of placement decisions
- Restraint/Isolation issues
- Private/Residential placements
Have a question about your child's rights at school?
Fill out the form below to receive a complimentary case analysis from attorney Pam Cleary.
Responses are typically provided within 48 hours.
Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship