Yes. At your discretion, you can bring individuals to the meeting who have knowledge or special expertise regarding your child — including an advocate, friend, regional center case manager (service coordinator) or attorney. The parent or school district that invited the individual to the meeting makes the determination of whether an individual has knowledge or special expertise. [34 C.F.R. Secs. 300.321(a)(6) & (c); Cal. Ed. Code. Secs. 56341(b)(6) & 56341.1(f).]

Any decision that is made with regard to an IEP must be made with the informed consent of the parent. An advocate or case manager can assist in this process by fully explaining to you the actions or consequences being discussed or considered.