Independent and free. Sources opened on October 14, 2026. Never a law firm.
The state special education page, community college disability services, and family resource centers.
These are starting points in California. Confirm the details with the organization. We do not decide who qualifies.
State agency
California Department of Education
This is the California Department of Education page titled Special Education, under Specialized Programs. We confirmed the page title on the check date. Use the page itself for family resources. We are not describing a process we could not re-read in full.
State agency
California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office
DSPS helps students with disabilities get equal access to programs and activities at California community colleges. The Chancellor's Office says campuses serve students with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, psychological disabilities, developmental delay, brain injury, and vision or hearing disabilities, among others.
Nonprofit
Family Resource Centers Network of California
FRCNCA is a coalition of Early Start Family Resource Centers. It says it trains center staff, connects families with services, and advocates for children with disabilities and their families.
State agency
California Department of Rehabilitation
DOR Student Services help a student explore and prepare for work. Services follow the student's interests. You must be enrolled in school or an education program. You must be age 16 through 21. At least one of these must be true: you have a 504 plan or could get one, you have an IEP, you have a disability, or others think you have a disability. The online application was not available when we checked. Ask a local office how to apply in person, or ask for the form by mail or email. You can also email YouthServices@dor.ca.gov.