The Law Office of Carolyn Makens is a specialized legal practice dedicated exclusively to special education law and advocacy, serving families throughout Northern California. Founded by an attorney who is also a parent of a child with disabilities, the firm brings a deeply personal commitment to securing appropriate educational opportunities for children with special needs.
With over a decade of focused experience in special education advocacy and litigation, Carolyn Makens leverages her background in both law and hands-on parenting to support families. Her practice is built on extensive knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), mediation, due process hearings, and appellate cases, particularly within the 9th Circuit. She works closely with families to develop effective behavioral intervention plans and management techniques for both home and school environments.
Services Offered
- Special Education Law & Advocacy
- IDEA Compliance and Representation
- Mediation Services
- Due Process Complaints and Hearings
- Appellate Case Representation (9th Circuit)
- Development of Behavioral Intervention Plans (BIP)
- Behavioral Management Techniques for Home and School
- Advocacy for Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
- Support for children with Asperger’s, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Non-Verbal Learning Disability, Sensory Integration Dysfunction, Motor Planning Difficulties, Speech and Language Disorders, Dysgraphia, Genetic Disorders, and Dyspraxia
- Special Needs Trust Experience
The firm serves clients across Northern California, including Marin County, the East Bay, South Bay, San Francisco, and numerous other counties and cities. Carolyn Makens is admitted to the bar in California, Tennessee, and Illinois, and is an active member of multiple bar associations and advocacy organizations such as COPAA and CAPCA.
