Ohio Attorney For Children With Special Needs
Last updated on April 7, 2025
Thousands of Ohio children live with disabilities, representing a significant portion of the state’s youth population. Families like yours navigate complex medical systems, educational requirements and financial concerns while providing daily care for your child.
Cutting through red tape requires a trusted guide who understands both legal frameworks and personal challenges. Founded in 1979, Hickman Lowder has served Ohio’s disability community for over four decades, creating road maps that help families access vital resources and protect their children’s futures. Our estate planning services can protect your child’s financial security for years to come. Let us help you secure the support your child deserves.
Medical And Caregiving Support In Ohio
Ohio offers several programs to support children with special needs. These include:
- IDEA-B funding provides school-based services including occupational therapy, physical therapy and specialized classroom environments
- Children with Medical Handicaps program offers financial assistance for the diagnosis and treatment of eligible conditions
- Bureau for Children with Medical Handicaps coordinates nursing care and medical services for qualifying families
- Ohio Department of Medicaid administers health care coverage options specifically designed for children with disabilities
Our attorneys can help you navigate these complex systems to maximize available benefits for your child’s unique needs.
Advocating For Your Child’s Education
Securing appropriate educational services requires steadfast advocacy. An Individualized Education Program (IEP) should address your child’s specific needs but schools may not always provide adequate resources.
Our attorneys help evaluate whether your child’s IEP truly serves their interests and can intervene when schools fail to deliver promised services. Your child’s IEP should include:
- Specific measurable goals tailored to your child’s unique abilities and challenges
- Appropriate accommodations that enable meaningful educational progress
- Regular assessment methods to track development and adjust strategies
- Clear accountability for who delivers services and when
When schools fail to implement IEPs properly, families have legal recourse. Our attorneys can help document violations, request compensatory services and pursue formal complaints to protect your child’s educational rights.
How Do I Know If My Child Is Eligible For Disability Services In Ohio?
Eligibility depends on your child’s specific condition, family income and the particular program. We can help you determine which services best suit your situation.
How Long Can My Child Stay In Special Needs Programs?
Program eligibility varies by service type and your child’s needs. Some programs end at age 18 while others extend to 21 or even 26 years old. As your child transitions to adulthood, we provide services for continued support.
Can My Child Stay On My Insurance If They Have Medicaid For Their Disability?
Yes. Many families maintain private insurance coverage while also utilizing Medicaid benefits for their child with special needs.
If My School District Doesn’t Have Adequate Services, Can We Go Elsewhere?
Options may include alternative placement, supplemental services or district transfers, depending on your circumstances and legal rights.
How Do I Know If My Child Is Getting Access To All Available Funding?
Many families miss possible benefits because they do not know what is available to them. Our attorneys can help spot overlooked opportunities for support.
Let Us Help Your Family
You do not have to tackle these systems on your own. Contact Hickman Lowder today at 440-577-3277 or through this online form for compassionate guidance. Our attorneys understand both the law and the unique challenges your family faces.