Zatopa, Stephens & Kurzrock

Initial Screening

Formal Case Review

In some cases, the initial screening does not provide us with sufficient information to determine whether we are able to obtain the result sought by the prospective client. In those cases, we can do a formal case review for a fixed and moderate fee.

Included in the case review are:

• Review of the client’s records, including past evaluation reports, special education documents, juvenile court records, school progress reports and relevant correspondence

• Communication with other professionals involved with the child, including therapists, psychiatrists, tutors, and pediatricians

• Review of the law relevant to the case

• Face-to-face or telephone interview

At the end of the initial screening or formal case review, we will state whether we believe we can obtain a favorable outcome. If the prospective client agrees to retain us, we will take the following steps:

• Make a referral to obtain an independent psycho-educational assessment if a recent one has not been conducted

• Accept the case with specific recommendations for ongoing representation (see “Ongoing Representation” below)

Ongoing Representation

In most of our cases, we establish an ongoing relationship with our clients to obtain the special education services they seek for their children. Fees for our ongoing clients are based on an hourly rate for legal services provided, which may include:

• Developing an overall case strategy, including retention of outside experts where necessary and recommendations regarding specific action and prospects for settlement

• All communications with the public agencies necessary to pursue obtaining the services or result sought by our client

• Attending IEP meetings, mediations, administrative hearings, and court procedures as necessary