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Fagen Friedman & Fulfrost LLP

David A. Graham

he/him/his

Associate

San Diego
dgraham@f3law.com
D 760.304.6022
David A. Graham

What can I solve for you?

Drawing on my extensive experience in and passion for special education and student services, I thoroughly understand these important related areas and bring strong legal and communication skills to help clients on a wide array of issues. I offer counsel on the complex laws and regulations governing special education, handle all of phases of due process hearings, and represent clients in the full spectrum of IEP and other matters.

What's it like to work with me?

Because I believe strongly in public education, I enjoy helping educators and school districts teach kids. I take pride in developing rapport and putting people at ease, which fosters productive conversations. I understand the perspectives of the families and educators, as well as the school districts, while always keeping in mind the limited availability of special education resources. My ability to find a middle ground helps to smooth paths for us to reach resolutions that make everyone happy.

Top Issues in My Practice

  • #specialeducation
  • #iep
  • #studentservices
  • #section504

Overview

Combining outstanding legal acumen with a background in both teaching and school administration, David Graham advises and assists clients in special education and student services issues.

David’s unique, real-world experience sets him apart. After practicing as an attorney for several years, he received a special education instruction credential and worked in K-12 charter schools in the San Diego area, both as a case manager/teacher and as an administrator. His duties included coordinating special education services, ensuring legal compliance, drafting contracts and board policies, creating and facilitating student and staff advisory programs, and working directly with students with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 plans. David recently returned to law practice and is thrilled to be at F3, where he can contribute his skills to bolster public education in California.

With his multifaceted understanding of all aspects of special ed, including adherence to the maze of laws and rules regulating the arena, David possesses a particular interest and skill in the pre-filing, pre-litigation and due process portions of matters. He writes IEPs, prepares and consults with IEP teams, participates in IEP meetings, reviews IEP assessment reports and provides feedback on them, and represents clients in IEP-related mediations and hearings.

Even in fraught and emotional situations involving decisions about children’s futures, David’s outstanding people skills, relatable approach and educational background help preserve school districts’ relationships with families. His credibility in matters is reinforced by his ability to speak the languages of both the classroom and of the administration. David also draws on his status as a father and as a husband to a special education program specialist. As he puts it, “my wife and I both live and breathe special education.”

David’s continued commitment to helping students reach their full potential is demonstrated by his involvement in San Diego Volunteer Lawyer’s Program, which supports families in educational advocacy. He also contributes his time to various social justice reform groups, including RISE San Diego and San Diego County Restorative Practices.

After School

Outside of his professional activities, David is a proud father of two young daughters, and enjoys being at the beach with his family, paddle boarding, running with his dog, cooking, and exploring new restaurants and breweries.

Education

  • Northeastern University School of Law (J.D.)
  • Brandeis University (B.A.)
  • High Tech High Graduate School of Education (Educational Specialist Instruction Credential Mild/Moderate Disabilities)

Admissions

Bar Admissions
  • California
  • Massachusetts
  • Rhode Island
Court Admissions
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
  • U.S. District Court, Central District, California
  • U.S. District Court, Southern District, California
  • U.S. District Court, Massachusetts
  • U.S. District Court, Rhode Island

Related Services

  • Special Education
  • Student Rights & Discipline

Related Clients

  • Public Education K-12
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