In addition to donating time to local groups and organizations throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Hinkle, Prior & Fischer supports the work of several statewide not-for-profit organizations.
AUTISM SOCIETY GREATER PHILADELPHIA 2016 SPRING AUTISM CONFERENCE. FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016, Radisson Hotel Valley Forge, King of Prussia, PA; Featuring Steve Silberman, award winning science writer and New York Times bestselling author of NeuroTribes.
For over four years a battle has raged in the state of New Jersey over whether individuals with disabilities in out-of-state placements should remain in their homes or be brought back to New Jersey. The families of the effected individuals decided to take matters into their own hands by challenging this policy in Trenton. It took over a year of intense advocacy and lobbying. In the end, this group of families triumphed.
The ABLE Act creates tax advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities, which in most cases will not jeopardize means tested government benefits such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). However, there are a number of limitations.
The New Jersey Comprehensive Assessment Tool is the newest assessment the Division of Developmental Disabilities (“DDD”) is using to determine eligibility and funding levels. Completing this questionnaire is one of the most important steps you will take in preparing for your child to receive the appropriate level of supports and services from DDD.
ABLE accounts are similar to 529 accounts for college savings and will have the same tax advantages as 529 savings accounts; except ABLE accounts are designed to create “tax-free” savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. ABLE accounts will be funded with “after-tax” money, but the earnings in the account will not be subject to Federal income tax (although the earnings may be subject to state income tax).
Increasingly, school districts are trying to graduate students with disabilities as early as possible. It is more important than ever for parents to know their legal rights regarding when their child with disabilities should graduate. This Q&A article will equip you with the basic information you need regarding your legal rights.
Under federal special education laws, “transition” services means a coordinated set of activities for a student, designed within a results-oriented process, that promotes movement from school to post-school activities, including post-secondary education, vocational education, integrated employment (including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation.
The Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey (SHA) is organizing a campaign known as “Opening 1000 Doors.” This campaign seeks to encourage the New Jersey Legislature to add funds to the Administration’s budget sufficient to provide housing vouchers to 1000 individuals with disabilities. Please sign the petition.
In conjunction with Special Olympics New Jersey, Maria Fischer, Esq. and S. Paul Prior, Esq, were invited to provide a workshop to high school athletic directors at the annual New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Conference in Atlantic City.
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Hinkle, Prior & Fischer attorneys are available to speak to your organization or constituents on a wide variety of relevant disability topics. 