SPECIAL EDUCATION
IEP, 504 Plan, alternative education or therapy
Evaluations, assessments, present levels of academic and functional performance, the creation of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan including goals, specially designed instruction, accommodations, and placement can be daunting.
We provide support to you and your child as you navigate challenges that may arise. Based on our personal and professional experience in the world of special education and Alderwood Legal’s mission, vision, and values, our approach is a mix of collaboration and strong advocacy.
In addition, Alderwood Legal has experience providing support for alternative education decisions and insurance authorization for specialized therapy such as Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy.
We strive to maintain and repair the fractures in the team, support coverage for alternative education or therapy, while advocating for your child’s needs. Our goal is to set your child on the path of success.
GUARDIANSHIPS
SUPPORTIVE DECISION MAKING
Taking care of the health, safety and wellbeing of a loved one is the foundation of a guardianship. A guardian or co-guardians are appointed by the court to make medical, living, and some financial decisions on behalf of the person experiencing a disability.
Alderwood Legal provides holistic legal support and after an evaluation, we may determine that a guardianship is not the proper way to provide the protected person with support; rather a supportive decision making agreement is the most suitable approach.
We collaborate with other professionals that are providing your family with support and work to change the way your family navigates this chapter.
FAMILY LAW
Marriage, Domestic Partnerships, Civil Unions, Paternity, Custody
Separation or divorce after a domestic partnership or marriage are one of the five most stressful life events. Sometimes, this chapter also involves moving, illness, and job loss; three more of the top five most challenging life events. We want to walk alongside you and change the way you and your family navigate these legal challenges. We will act with integrity, respect, empathy and compassion while being as effective and efficient as we are able.
We are proponents of the Collaborative Process for divorce in addition to providing traditional divorce counsel. Our holistic support in this area of law means we not only provide you with legal support, we also take time to understand your other needs and lay out resources that may be available to you and your children to provide support during this very challenging time.
ESTATE PLANNING
Wills, Trusts, Durable Power of Attorney, Advance Directive
Estate planning is more than just a piece of paper. Whether your goals are best served by a Will, a Trust (Testamentary, revocable or irrevocable), or a Special Needs Trust (“SNT”)), and Power of Attorney and Advance Directive, Alderwood Legal will guide you through the planning process by taking into account your personal goals and the goals you have for your loved ones.
We provide holistic legal support by taking the time to assess your unique needs and those of your family, including those who experience disability and who may qualify for means-tested governmental benefits such as Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid. Our approach goes beyond the documents and considers other related aspects of your life. The gift of peace of mind upon completion of your estate planning can be priceless.