Lead Attorney – Special Education (IDEA / ABA Funding)

Location: New York City (Hybrid)

We are recruiting for a NYC-based boutique law firm seeking an experienced Special Education Attorney to serve as Lead Counsel in IDEA due process and pendency matters focused on ABA services.

Our client’s practice is highly specialized and dedicated exclusively to securing Department of Education–funded ABA services for students with disabilities. The firm operates with a structured, efficient case framework and provides strong internal support, including a DOE-experienced paralegal and an in-house clinical ABA specialist, allowing attorneys to focus on legal strategy and advocacy.

Position Overview

The Lead Attorney will own legal strategy and advocacy across assigned matters involving ABA funding disputes against the NYC Department of Education. This is a senior-level role offering meaningful autonomy, leadership responsibility, and long-term growth potential within a focused practice area.

Key Responsibilities

• Handle IDEA due process cases seeking DOE funding for ABA services
• Draft and oversee due process complaints, pendency filings, and related submissions
• Lead resolution sessions and settlement negotiations with NYC DOE
• Appear before Impartial Hearing Officers, as required
• Serve as lead counsel on assigned matters and direct overall case strategy
• Collaborate with an experienced paralegal and a clinical ABA specialist

Required Qualifications

• Active New York State Bar license
• Substantial experience in special education law and IDEA due process
• Direct experience working with the NYC Department of Education
• Experience with impartial hearings, resolution sessions, and pendency matters
• Ability to independently manage hearings, negotiations, and client matters

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated success securing ABA funding through hearings or settlement
• Parent-side special education law experience
• Familiarity with ABA evaluations and clinical documentation
• Interest in working within a narrow, specialized practice area

What This Role Is Not

• Not a general litigation or family law position
• Not an entry-level or training role
• Not a high-volume, unfocused caseload

Compensation & Benefits

• Full-time position with a hybrid schedule (NYC-based)
• Competitive compensation commensurate with experience
• Health benefits and paid time off
• Leadership opportunity with meaningful upside as the practice grows