Manifestation Determination Hearing Lawyer in Western Pennsylvania
When a school proposes to suspend or change the placement of a student with a disability for more than 10 school days, federal law requires a manifestation determination review (MDR). Attorney Jonathan Steele represents students and families in manifestation determination hearings throughout the Pittsburgh area and Western Pennsylvania.
What Is a Manifestation Determination Review?
A manifestation determination review is a meeting required by IDEA when a school district seeks to discipline a student with a disability for behavior that may be related to their disability or their IEP. The team must determine whether the behavior was caused by the child’s disability or resulted from a failure to properly implement the IEP.
If the behavior IS found to be a manifestation of the disability, the school cannot expel the student or impose a long-term suspension as it would for a non-disabled student. If the school incorrectly finds no manifestation, you have the right to appeal — and Attorney Steele can help.
How Education Legal Services Can Help
- Reviewing disciplinary records and IEP documentation
- Attending the manifestation determination meeting
- Challenging improper manifestation determinations
- Filing appeals if your child’s rights were violated
- Ensuring continued educational services during disciplinary proceedings
- Seeking appropriate supports to address the underlying behavior
Protecting Students During the Discipline Process
Students with disabilities have specific procedural protections during disciplinary proceedings. Schools must continue providing services even when a student is removed from their current placement. Contact Education Legal Services at 412-235-7682 or jonathan@educationlegalservices.com.