David A. Graham

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.