Ask The Attorney
See questions others are facing answered by a legal expert.The information provided is designed to provide general information in regard to the subject matter covered. As the law is always changing and may vary from state to state the information may not reflect current legal developments. The information provided is not intended to substitute for professional legal services or to create an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice about a specific set of facts, you should consult with an attorney.
Changes to the expulsion/suspension rules applicable to all public school students
Question: I understand that last August the State Legislature made some changes to the expulsion/suspension rules that are applicable to all public school students. Yes they did just in time for the 2017-2018 school year. Prior to that Michigan had one of the most...
read moreMy Child’s Physician Has Diagnosed My Child with Autism – Now What?
My Child’s Physician Has Diagnosed My Child with Autism - Now What? 22 July, 2016 Autism Ask The Attorney Diagnoses First, all local public school districts have an “affirmative duty” to locate and then evaluate for eligibility all student’s with a disability. This is...
read moreHelp! 18 year old with ASD planning for post-high school life
Question: I am 18 years old and on the autism spectrum. With the help of curriculum modifications and accommodations provided to me under IDEA and §504 in high school, this June I will graduate with a regular diploma. Right now I am not sure if I want to enroll in a...
read moreHelp with Life Insurance Policy for Son with Autism
Question: Our son has autism. Recently we attempted to obtain a life insurance policy for him. The application was rejected based on the autism diagnosis. What can I do? Response provided by AAoM Legal Consultant John Brower, Attorney Parents desire to buy insurance...
read moreABA Therapy During School Hours
Question: Twice each week I take my school aged child to ABA therapy during school hours. I now have received a notice from the ISD Truancy Officer demanding I come into the school to “discuss” my child’s absences in what she claims is a violation of the Michigan...
read moreWhat federal and Michigan laws do we need to be aware of as we advocate for our child with ASD?
Question: Our physician recently told us that our 2 year old child is “on the autism spectrum”. What federal and Michigan laws do we need to be aware of as we advocate for our child? Answer provided by Autism Alliance of Michigan's Legal Consultant John Brower There...
read moreMichigan Laws regarding the use of punishment, positive behavior intervention, restriction and seclusion
Question: I have a child with autism. I am trying to understand what Michigan laws exist regarding the use of punishment, positive behavior intervention, restriction and seclusion in controlling my child’s behaviors when attending school. Response provided by AAoM's...
read moreHelp…Cannot afford 20 hours of ABA weekly and Insurance Won’t Cover it
Question: My child has been diagnosed with autism. His therapist says he needs at least 20 hours of ABA therapy weekly. The cost is estimated at $2,000 a week and our insurance will not cover this. I have applied for Medicaid and the application was denied due to my...
read moreHelp! Son attends Private School for Children with Learning Disorders…possible state reimbursement?
Question: Our son is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and attends a private school designed to help children with learning disorders. He has and has always had an IEP when he was in the public schools through the 4th grade, but as we felt that the public school...
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