Why Choose Us

The Law Offices of Susan J. Deedy & Associates

When you're choosing a special education attorney, you're not just looking for someone who understands the law - you're looking for a lawyer who will take the time to understand your child, communicate with you throughout the process and fight effectively for the services your child needs.

When you choose our team, you receive:

Personal Relationships and Direct Communication

Our firm prioritizes developing genuine relationships with every family we represent. You will meet with Susan Deedy personally for an extensive case assessment and consultation so that we can really learn who your child is, discuss options, strategy and the best pathway moving forward.

This personal approach means we develop an individual understanding of each child's strengths, challenges, and needs. We take the time to listen to how your child learns, what's working and what isn't, and what your goals are for their education. That understanding informs every aspect of how we advocate for your family.

We also prioritize ongoing communication throughout your case. Special education matters often unfold over months, with evaluations, meetings, negotiations and sometimes hearings. To ensure your involvement and understanding of that process, we keep families informed about developments, explain options and implications of different decisions.

Experience That Makes a Difference

Susan Deedy brings a unique perspective to special education advocacy – early in her career, she represented public schools at the New York City then Board of Education, currently the NYC DOE. Her background representing school districts has provided Susan with the knowledge and insight into how districts think, how decisions about services and placements are made and the practical considerations of the public school system. This insider knowledge informs how our entire firm approaches advocacy.

Over time, our attorneys have developed extensive knowledge about various disabilities and how they manifest within educational settings. Practicing special education law isn't just about knowing the IDEA and state regulations — it's about understanding what services are appropriate for children with autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, ADHD, auditory processing disorders, emotional disabilities, anxiety and other conditions. Our experience means we know the different types of teaching methodologies, supports, accommodations and programs that work for different learning profiles so that we can effectively advocate on behalf of your child.

We have successfully represented thousands of families either in litigation at Due Process hearings, at the New York State Review level and within the Federal Appellate Court level. Often, we are able to achieve results without the need for litigation, securing outcomes that include appropriate IEP services and modifications, tuition reimbursement for private school placements, compensatory education, anti-bullying safety plans and Behavior Intervention Plans.

Knowledge of Local School Districts and Programs

We have worked with school districts throughout Nassau County, Suffolk County and New York City for decades. This experience gives us familiarity with how different districts operate, what programs and services are typically offered, and how disputes with parents are handled.

This local knowledge is practical and valuable. We can give you realistic expectations about how your case may unfold. We know which public school programs might be appropriate for your child and which New York state approved private schools might meet your child’s unique needs. We maintain professional relationships with public school administration and their attorneys.

A Reputation Built on Results

Our firm is recognized throughout New York for effective special education advocacy. School districts know that when our attorneys represent a family, the parents will not back down, and we will take on a matter as long and as far as necessary.

Our reputation will assist your case in reaching the desired outcome often before a case reaches litigation.

Services Tailored to Your Family's Needs

Every family's situation is different. Some need full representation through the litigation process. Others may benefit from a consultation or perhaps just legal representation at a single critical meeting. We tailor our services to match what makes sense in your circumstances and goals, and we are transparent about fees and what different levels of representation might involve.

We also understand that behind every case is a child who deserves an appropriate education and parents who are trying to navigate a complex system while managing work, family and the daily realities of raising a child with special needs. We approach every family with an understanding of what you are dealing with, and we are committed to making the legal process as manageable as possible for you.

If you’re ready to get started, reach out to our office today.