Special Needs Trusts

Legal Considerations for Children with Special Needs

Lauren B. Abramson, Esq.

When you have a special needs child, you cannot afford to not plan. Whether you are facing a family law dispute or considering the educational future of your child, there are many issues surrounding special needs children that need to be addressed. At my practice in White Plains, New York, I work with parents of special needs children and understand the issues they face.

As both a family law attorney and a social worker, I have represented numerous parents with children who have developmental disabilities and special needs. I have an extensive understanding of what the needs of parents are and how to advocate on their behalf in custody, visitation, child support, and other family law cases. Contact me to discuss your legal concerns or questions related to your child's needs, both immediately and into the future.

Important Considerations

There are many issues surrounding special needs children. It is critical that, in divorce cases, parents arrive at custody, visitation, and child support arrangements that take into consideration the unique, ongoing needs of their children. You must include provisions within these agreements that address those needs or leave the agreement open to address future issues that may arise. It is difficult to modify a prior custody, visitation, or child support judgment. I can advise you as to the issues that must be addressed in order to avoid the need for future modifications or disputes.

A lawyer who knows the legal issues and factors that affect the lives of special needs children can help you. Special needs children must be recertified every year for special education services. You need an educational lawyer who can represent your child's interests in this process and get the support they need through the school. It is also important to set up a special needs trust for your child. This is a dynamic area of law and requires legal guidance from an attorney who is well versed in recent changes.

I understand what special needs children require as far as education, preparation for the future, as well as trusts and estate planning matters. In cases of divorce, it is also critical that the special needs of these children are considered when arriving at child custody and visitation agreements. Trust my knowledge and experience. Contact me for thoughtful, personalized legal counsel regarding your child's unique care needs.