Kevin Shields
TexasSpecialEducationLawyers.com
I understand how overwhelming and frustrating it can be to navigate the complexities of special education law, especially when your child’s education and future are on the line.
That’s why I’m here to help. Alongside my team of dedicated attorneys, I’ve been providing tailored legal services to Texas families of children with disabilities for years. I’m passionate about what I do, and my mission is to help families secure the services and support their children need to thrive.
Families come to me with a variety of concerns, including issues like school abuse, bullying, and the lack of necessary services in educational settings. I recognize the root causes of these challenges and the emotional toll they take on families. That’s why I approach every case with compassion and empathy, working closely with clients to understand their unique needs and goals. Whether it’s ensuring your child receives the educational services they require, advocating for adequate protection against bullying, negotiating a settlement, or pursuing litigation, my goal is to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Shields Law is a family-owned firm run by my wife, Liz, and me. We treat every client like family. We are familiar with the school system and its processes, and we use our experience to guide families through the often-confusing matters surrounding their special needs children. Families trust us to provide the guidance and support they need, and I’m committed to honoring that trust every step of the way.
- Education Law
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Free Consultation
We offer free 15-minute discovery calls with our intake specialist so we can learn about your situation and what you'd like to achieve. If we are a potential fit and you would like us to take a more in-depth look at your matter, we will invite you to schedule a paid attorney strategy session. -
Credit Cards Accepted
We understand that working with us is a financial investment in your child's future. Depending on your needs, we can work under a simple flat fee, capped fees, or a traditional retainer. In many special education cases, we are able to get your school district to reimburse your legal fees. -
Rates, Retainers and Additional Information
We are not the right fit if you are looking for basic special education legal services or cut-and-paste special needs planning. Quick or one-size-fits-all approaches are not what we do. Working with us will never be the “cheapest option,” however, deciding who to work with based entirely on the financial investment will often cost you or your family in the future. In all cases, we take the time to understand your specific situation, needs, and future goals before moving forward with any course of action. We do high-quality, individualized, and detailed client work. We are proud to have built fantastic relationships with clients who see long-term value in working with a law firm that takes the time needed to serve clients best.
- District of Columbia
- District of Columbia Bar
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- Maryland
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- Texas
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- English: Spoken, Written
- Shields Law Firm
- Current
- University of Texas - Austin
- Honors: High Honors
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- Georgetown University Law Center
- J.D.
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- State Bar of Texas # 24098742
- Member
- Current
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- Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)
- Current
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- Conflict Mediation
- Universtiy of Texas
- Q. My son is autistic and in the special needs program at his elementary school. Can I have a say in making modifications
- A: Yes, absolutely. As the parent, you are a member of any group that meets to decide services or placement for your son.
The law is clear regarding parent participation in meetings:
The parents of a child with a disability must be afforded an opportunity to participate in meetings with respect to -
(i) The identification, evaluation, and educational placement of the child; and
(ii) The provision of FAPE to the child. 34 CFR 300.501 (b)
Your son's IEP team is a good place to start and voice your concerns.
If you cannot make progress with the IEP team, using a special education advocate or lawyer may help. No matter how you proceed though, you should ... Read More
- Q. Do the parents of the minor have to be present when the minor makes a verbal /written statement to school & local police
- A: Parents need not be present while school officials are asking questions of a student in most cases. However, if the questioning was by the police or your child was in police custody, constitutional protections may be triggered. You may want to consult a local criminal lawyer about the specific details of your case.
- Q. I got a ticket for possession of alcohol on school grounds but I only had a bottle that smelled like beer
- A: While you were at a school, this is more of a criminal law question and are likely being charged under your state's criminal code. Once your case goes to court, you can present whatever evidence you have during a trial. It may be helpful to contact a local criminal lawyer about your individual facts.
