At Bilello & Soowal, PLLC, we believe that education is more than a public service. It is a fundamental right that shapes futures and sustains dreams.
Yet school can sometimes feel like a battleground rather than a sanctuary. Navigating disciplinary hearings, negotiating Individualized Education Programs, or standing up for academic fairness can be intimidating. That is why we exist, because no student should feel powerless when their right to learn is at risk.
We are a Florida education lawyer advocacy team, comprising a student defense attorney in Florida and an education defense attorney in a Florida firm, all in one. Our team understands educational law and lives it. We root for our clients as if they were our own family, and we champion their rights with passion.
Our Purpose and Our Strength
We founded this firm on the belief that every student deserves fair treatment in school. Nathan Soowal is the founding member and brings decades of insight grounded in Florida roots. Joining him is Chelsea A. Bilello, who joined our growing practice in 2022. She brings a background in general civil litigation and personal injury, grounded in service to clients through emotionally complex legal matters.
Together, we bring four generations of Florida‑born commitment. We work side by side on every case, so you benefit from two strong advocates instead of one.
Why School Rights Matter
When a student faces disciplinary action, academic misconduct accusations, or is denied special education support, the consequences extend far beyond the classroom. A suspension or expulsion may haunt academic records, blunt college prospects, or shatter confidence.
Meanwhile, families of students with disabilities may struggle to ensure their legal right to personalized education is honored. For teachers, the risk of losing a teaching license is wrenching. Our law firm exists because we refuse to let system breakdowns define futures.
What Students Should Know About Their Rights in Florida Schools
1. A Free Public Education Is a Constitutional Right
Every student in Florida is entitled to a free public education, as guaranteed by the state constitution. Schools must consistently and fairly uphold that right.
2. Special Education Rights Are Protected by Law
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504, students with disabilities are entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment. That means assistive technology, occupational therapy, behavioral supports, paraprofessional aides, and more, where needed.
3. School Discipline Must Follow Process and Due Process
Suspensions, expulsions, or disciplinary removals must not be arbitrary. Students have the right to hearings, appeals, and fair processes before disciplinary action becomes permanent.
4. Protection from Discrimination and Harassment
Students are protected under Title VI (prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, or national origin), Title IX (prohibiting discrimination based on sex), the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other civil rights statutes. Bullying or denial of services based on protected characteristics is illegal.
5. Freedom of Speech and Expression
Students retain First Amendment rights at school, within reasonable limits. That means school cannot censor student expression arbitrarily.
6. Privacy of Student Records (FERPA)
Students and their families have the right to access and control their educational records, subject to specific federal regulations. Schools must maintain confidential records and adhere to access protocols.
7. Navigating Controversial Curriculum Laws
Florida laws, such as the Parental Rights in Education Act (colloquially known as the “Don’t Say Gay” law) and the Stop Woke Act, impose constraints on instruction around sensitive topics.
Schools must notify parents of changes in their child’s mental or emotional health and allow opt-outs where required. We help families and educators understand how these laws affect classroom instruction and civil rights.
8. Charter Schools, Homeschooling, and Choice Options
Florida offers various learning environments—from charter schools to homeschool pathways and vouchers—but each comes with legal complexities surrounding enrollment rights, funding, curriculum requirements, and access to services under IDEA and Section 504.
How Our Unique Perspective Helps You
We bring a fresh emotional intelligence and legal precision to every case.
- We connect personally. We are Floridians who care deeply about our community’s youth and educators.
- We combine warmth with tenacity. We listen to your own story, reflect that humanity in how we advocate, and fight with unwavering purpose when your rights are threatened.
- We balance negotiation and litigation. Whether through sensitive diplomacy or by pursuing legal action, we will strive to achieve justice through the path that best protects your rights and dignity.
How to Take Charge If Your Rights Are at Risk
- Document everything about disciplinary notices, IEP proposals, emails from school staff, and incidents of bullying or discrimination.
- Request meetings—to understand evidence, proposed decisions, and the school’s legal procedures.
- Know your rights under IDEA, Section 504, Title IX, and Florida law. You do not have to navigate them alone.
- Get legal help early. In many cases, time is critical. Delays can limit your ability to challenge disciplinary decisions or hold schools to required standards.
- Choose representation that understands your life, not just your case.
We Are Here for You
As your Florida education lawyer firm, we stand ready to serve as your student defense attorney in Florida or education defense attorney in Florida. We support:
- Students facing disciplinary proceedings, academic misconduct accusations, or denials of services.
- Families seeking to secure necessary IEPs or accommodations for children with special needs.
- Teachers battling license threats or professional investigations.
- Any person navigating Florida’s evolving education laws, whether around curriculum, civil rights, privacy, or governance.
We offer dedicated representation in Broward, Orange, and surrounding counties, including Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and beyond.
Understanding Your Rights
Your right to learn and to be treated fairly in school is not negotiable. When that right is in doubt, you deserve more than advice. You deserve to be fierce with compassion, steady with heart, and informed with resolve.
That is how we show up. We will stand with you in school meetings, negotiation rooms, and courtrooms. We will ensure that no one is left behind or pushed down by bureaucracy or unfairness.