Education Solicitors

Navigating the education system can be challenging, especially when your child has special educational needs or you find yourself in conflict with a school or local authority. At Biscoes, our local education solicitors provide clear, practical education law advice and representation, ensuring that your child receives the personal support and opportunities they deserve.

Biscoes’ education solicitors help families across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, and the South Coast with a wide range of education law issues, from securing Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) to challenging exclusions and representing parents in SEND Tribunal appeals. Our education law specialists are committed to achieving positive outcomes that put the child’s individual needs first.

Our education solicitors provide support with a wide range of matters, including:

• Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
• SEND Tribunal Appeals
• Exclusions (Fixed-Term and Permanent)
• School Admissions and Complaints
• SEND Mediation
• Securing Funding for Special Educational Needs

Speak to our education solicitors today

If you would like to contact one of our education solicitors in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, please call 02392 660261 . Alternatively, please fill out this simple contact form, and we will respond promptly.

Why choose Biscoes for your education law needs?

Our education law solicitors are approachable, knowledgeable, and highly experienced in dealing with local authorities, schools, and academies. We understand that education disputes can feel overwhelming and emotional, particularly when your child’s future is at stake. That’s why we provide personal, tailored advice, step-by-step guidance, and strong advocacy to protect your child’s rights.

As a Lexcel accredited firm, we are recognised for our high standards of client care and practice management. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or formal appeals, Biscoes’ education solicitors will work with you to achieve the best possible outcome.

Our education law services

Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)

We assist parents in applying for EHCPs, challenging refusals, and ensuring that plans accurately reflect their child’s individual needs. An EHCP is a crucial document that sets out the educational, health, and social care support a child requires, and Biscoes’ education lawyers can ensure that your local authority delivers its legal obligations.

SEND Tribunal appeals

If the local authority refuses to assess your child, issue an EHCP, or name your preferred school, you may appeal to the SEND Tribunal. Our local education solicitors prepare strong cases, represent you at hearings, and work tirelessly to secure the right support for your child.

Exclusions

Our education solicitors recognise that school exclusions can be devastating for children and their families. We advise parents on challenging both fixed-term and permanent exclusions, ensuring that procedures have been followed correctly and that your child’s rights have been respected.

School admissions and complaints

Disputes over school placements or unfair treatment can cause unnecessary stress. We guide parents through the complaints process, challenge unlawful decisions, and, where necessary, escalate matters to the relevant authorities.

SEND mediation

Before appealing to the SEND Tribunal, parents are usually required to consider mediation. Our local solicitors support families through this process, ensuring your concerns are properly heard and your child’s needs remain the focus of discussion.

Securing funding for special educational needs

Local authorities sometimes fail to provide adequate funding for a child’s education. Our solicitors for education can help you challenge funding decisions and secure the resources needed to support your child’s learning and development.

Frequently asked questions about education law

What is an EHCP?

An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document that sets out the special educational, health, and social care support a child or young person requires. EHCPs replaced the old “Statements of Special Educational Needs (SEN)” and provide a coordinated plan to ensure appropriate support.

Who needs an EHCP?

Children and young people with significant special educational needs that cannot be met through ordinary school resources may need an EHCP. This includes children with complex learning difficulties, disabilities, or health conditions that affect their education. Our local education solicitors can provide a sensitive service to help you secure an EHCP that suits your child’s personal needs.

How often is the EHCP reviewed?

EHCPs must be reviewed at least once a year in an Annual Review meeting. Reviews consider whether the plan remains accurate and whether the support provided is still appropriate. Our education solicitors can help parents and schools request an early review if circumstances change.

What is SEND mediation?

SEND mediation is a process where parents and the local authority meet with an independent mediator to try to resolve disputes without going to the Tribunal. It is often quicker and less stressful than litigation. Biscoes’ education solicitors can help you prepare to meet your local authority and ensure your child’s needs are clearly presented.

How can a Biscoes education solicitor help if my local authority refuses to issue an EHCP?

If your request for an EHCP is refused, you have a right of appeal to the SEND Tribunal. Biscoes’ local education solicitors can advise on the merits of your case, prepare appeal paperwork, gather evidence, and represent you at the hearing to give your child the best chance of securing an EHCP.

My child's EHCP doesn't specify the school I want; can a solicitor help me challenge this?

Yes. Parents have the right to request that a particular school is named in their child’s EHCP. If the local authority refuses, our local solicitors can help build your appeal and present strong arguments for why your preferred school is the most suitable.

What are my legal options if my child has been excluded from school?

You can challenge an exclusion if you believe it is unfair or unlawful. Options include making representations to the governing body or, for permanent exclusions, seeking an Independent Review Panel. Biscoes’ education solicitors can advise on the best course of action, depending on the circumstances.

What is the process for making a formal complaint against a school?

Each school must have a complaints procedure, usually starting with raising the issue informally with staff before escalating it to the headteacher and governors. If unresolved, you may take the complaint to the Department for Education or other regulatory bodies. Our solicitors can guide you through this process.

Do I need a solicitor to appeal a decision made by the local authority?

While it is possible to represent yourself, many parents find it difficult to navigate the legal system alone. Our education solicitors bring expertise and experience to strengthen your case, improving your chances of success.

How long does the SEND Tribunal process take?

The Tribunal process typically takes around 12 to 20 weeks, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the case. Biscoes’ education solicitors ensure that deadlines are met and that your case is presented as effectively as possible.

Can an education solicitor help me secure funding for my child's educational needs?

Yes. We can help challenge local authority funding decisions and ensure that your child receives personalised support. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or Tribunal proceedings, we fight to secure the resources your child is entitled to.

Speak to our education solicitors today

If you would like to contact one of our education solicitors in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, please call 02392 660261 . Alternatively, please fill out this simple contact form, and we will respond promptly.