Kevin Shields

Serving Texas families in Special Education, Guardianship, Special Needs Planning and Medicaid Planning matters.

University of Texas - Austin

Honors: High Honors

Georgetown University Law Center

J.D.

Shields Law Firm

Current

Conflict Mediation

Universtiy of Texas

Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)

Current

State Bar of Texas  # 24098742

Member

Current

American Bar Association

Current

District of Columbia

District of Columbia Bar

Maryland

Texas

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  Special Education Lawyer

Education Law

Civil Rights

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Discrimination, Employment, Fair Housing, Police Misconduct, Privacy Law

Q. My son is autistic and in the special needs program at his elementary school. Can I have a say in making modifications

July 29, 2017

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 have a voice in the process.

Q. Do the parents of the minor have to be present when the minor makes a verbal /written statement to school & local police

April 6, 2017

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

April 6, 2017

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.