
Smolen Law Office
Advocating for Your Child’s Right to Quality Education

About Smolen Law Office
Smolen Law Office is built on both legal training and lived experience. Before advocating for other families, I advocated for my own child, working to move him out of an overly restrictive classroom setting and into a general education environment with appropriate supports. Witnessing firsthand the social and emotional harm that unnecessary isolation can cause a child was a defining moment in my professional path. I have spent my life around special education advocacy. My sister, Jacqueline, received special education services throughout her schooling, and those experiences shaped my understanding of how profoundly educational placement decisions affect a child’s confidence, development, and future.
Today, my practice is dedicated to helping parents ensure their children are educated in the least restrictive environment possible while protecting students with disabilities from unlawful or excessive discipline. I bring both legal expertise and personal insight to every case, working closely with families to understand their unique needs and guide them through sometimes complex processes. I am committed to creating a supportive, approachable, and responsive experience for every parent, so families feel confident and empowered while advocating for their child.
Our Services
Smolen Law Office provides focused representation for parents navigating special education placement and discipline matters, with an emphasis on protecting students’ rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) Advocacy
We represent parents seeking to transition their child from self-contained or overly restrictive classroom placements into general education settings with appropriate supports and services. Services may include IEP review and placement analysis, evaluation of restrictive placement decisions, advocacy at IEP and placement meetings, written advocacy to school districts, and due process representation when necessary.
IEP Discipline & Manifestation Advocacy
We advocate for students with IEPs facing suspension, removal, or changes of placement due to disciplinary issues. Services may include review of discipline records, manifestation determination advocacy, analysis of Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP), protection against unlawful removals exceeding IDEA limits, and representation in meetings and administrative proceedings.