FRLS provides legal support with:
✔ School enrollment challenges
✔ Suspensions, expulsions, and alternative placements
✔ Discrimination or harassment at school
✔ IEPs and 504 Plans
✔ Evaluations and special education needs
✔ Disputes over eligibility and services
✔ Challenging denials of evaluation or services
✔ Assistance for children who are homeless under the McKinney-Vento Act
✔Assistance for English Language Learners (ELL/ESOL students) if they are not receiving appropriate placement or services
Each case is reviewed on its own legal merits for case acceptance.
Who can FRLS help with education-related legal issues?
FRLS provides advice and legal representation in education matters for low-income parents, caregivers, and students.
WhatisFlorida RuralLegal Services(FRLS)?
Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to eligible individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties, as well as to farmworkers statewide.
Offices located in:
-Lakeland - Immokalee
-RivieraBeach - BelleGlade
-FortPierce - FortMyers
Our offices serve the following counties: Lee, Polk, Palm Beach, St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Indian River, Highlands, Hardee, Hendry, Charlotte, Desoto, and Glades.
FLORIDA RURALLEGAL SERVICES
Non-Profit Law Firm Serving Both Urban and Rural Communities
Whatrightsdo studentswithout housinghave withinschool?
Students without housing, including those who are couch surfing, have specific rights under the McKinneyVento Homeless Assistance Act to ensure they can access and succeed in school.
These rights include:
The right to immediate enrollment. The right to remain in their school. of origin (if in their best interest)
The right to receive transportation to that school. They also have the right to comparable services, like free school meals.
The right to privacy regarding their housing situation.
What does Florida law say about bullying or harassment at school?
According to Florida law, bullying or harassment of any student or employee of a public K-12 educational institution is prohibited.
Bullying includes cyberbullying and means systemically and chronically inflicting physical or psychological distress on one or more students may involve:
Teasing
Social exclusion
Threats
Intimidation
What’sthe Difference BetweenIEPs and504Plansfor studentswith disabilities?
Both IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) and 504 Plans are designed to support students with disabilities, but they serve different purposes.
An IEP provides eligible students with access to special education services, tailored instruction, accommodations, and specific learning goals. IEPs must be written, reviewed annually, and include measurable objectives that align with the student’s unique needs.
A 504 Plan falls under a federal civil rights law that protects students with disabilities from discrimination. It ensures access to general education by removing barriers and offering accommodations—such as extra time on tests or seating changes—but does not include individualized instruction or learning goals. 504 Plans are not required to be written or updated annually.
How Can Legal Aid Help with Suspensions, Expulsions, and Alternative School Placements?
Legal aid can play a critical role in protecting a student’s rights when facing school discipline. Here’s how:
EnsuringDueProcess: Legal aid attorneys can make sure the school follows proper procedures before suspending or expelling a student, including providing notice and the opportunity to be heard.
ChallengingUnfairDiscipline: If a suspension or expulsion is unjust or excessive, legal aid can help appeal the decision or request a hearing to present the student’s side.
PreventingDiscriminatoryPractices: Legal aid can intervene if the discipline appears to be based on race, disability, or other protected factors, ensuring the student is not being unfairly targeted.
if you qualify for free legal services. We'll ask several questions about your legal issue, household size, and income.
