CP & The Law
Stephen L. Snyder, the senior partner at Snyder Weltchek & Snyder, recently demonstrated his concern for the disability community by making a $2.5 million donation to UCP. For more than 25 years, his firm has fought for the legal rights of Maryland and D.C. based families who have to address the needs of children with cerebral palsy caused by substandard medical care. His firm has fought for the legal rights of families who have cerebral palsy and/or medical disabilities.
Stephen Snyder talks about disabilities and the challenges in obtaining access to programs and services offered by UCP that many parents face when they find out that their child has cerebral palsy (CP) and/or medical disabilities.
When parents become aware their child has a disability, handling the day-to-day issues like medical and personal care might be their first concern. But as their child matures, other issues such as accessibility to facilities, programs and education, special equipment for daily needs, and eventually employment will also become important. Fortunately, there are federal and state laws protecting the rights of children with disabilities which can help them live their lives to the fullest.
Many parents do not realize the law guarantees that children with disabilities such as cerebral palsy must be given a 'free and appropriate education.' This means your local public schools are required to educate your child for free, and are required to teach your child according to his or her specific needs. Children with special needs have the right to schools, programs, transportation, and specialized equipment such as communication devices and motorized wheelchairs to help promote personal growth, independence and productivity.
If parents believe their child's needs are not being met by public schools, they may consider placing their child in a private school. The law requires that if the public schools cannot provide the child with adequate services, the child must be placed in a private school at the public school's cost. But parents may need legal assistance to place their child in a private school and receive appropriate financial assistance from the public schools.
UCP encourages parents to learn about and understand their child’s legal rights to the services and programs that will best help their child prepare for life in the community. Being fully informed about your child's rights will prepare you to be your child's advocate and provide them with every available opportunity. Learn about other services offered by UCP of Central Maryland discussed by Stephen L. Snyder:
Visit the Snyder Weltchek & Snyder Web site for additional information on legal issues surrounding cerebral palsy and/or medical disabilities.
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