Hi Dawn while I am not a legal advocate I am trained to know the laws behind special education here in NJ. Along with having a child on the spectrum it was important for me and him to learn this information from the inside and out.
I gave up my career a an advertising director in NYC and I now work as the Autism Resource Specialist at Hackensack University Medical Center. if you need any help please feel free to contact me. My location is in the hospital but I am employed by SPAN . Take a look at our website if u haven't already http://www.spanadvocacy.org/ there are some listed training that are free I am sure can help you with education laws and advocacy
No one will advocate for your child better than YOU

Happy Belated Mother Day

You have to keep in mind, they are struggling with Autism as well, though their struggle is more Legal than Personal. We follow our feelings, they have to follow the laws.
If they Fail you and your child, request another Advocate, and if their office is less than helpful, find another office.
Being Human means that we as a species are Imperfect. We don't know it all, and that includes those in Legal positions.

Let's face it, you ARE the advocate. Nobody is really going to fight for your child like you do. The lack of actual experts is one of the most frustrating things about autism, in my opinion. WE ARE the experts.

Hello There! I guess first thing I would like to ask you is what are you looking for an advocate for?
As a Mom who has a 19 year old with autism I have found myself to be the best advocate for my son, as most moms and dads walking in our shoes. Advocates don't necessarily have to have a degree or be a so called expert on any subject anymore. For the most part, I've been able to research things myself to advocate for my son in regards to autism daily behaviors, schooling, and even legal matters regarding guardianship. Which FYI ....I even found a way to save money and become my son's guardian for less than $40.00 and without the need to pay an attorney. So on that note...If you're looking for an advocate, you might want to start by becoming one yourself first and research the subject you need to research, or contact a fellow Mom who is or has gone through something you may be about to go through yourself. Bottom line. Never under Estimate the Power you have within yourself. You're much stronger and resourceful than you know. Hope that helps with your question and if you ever do need the ear of a Mom living with autism.....I'm always here for you :) BIG HUGS!

@KaseyDudley-I received assistance from SPAN. Thank you for doing what you do!

I fought and lost with the school for almost 5 years. Granted we didn't have a diagnosis for my daughter, but the school didn't want to help at all. After the diagnosis I got in touch with Special Child Health Services who put me in touch with a SPAN advocate. She helped me to ask the right questions and say the right things. It took 1 mention that I was working with a SPAN advocate and I got what I asked for.