Special Education Dispute Resolution Manual (formerly the Hearing Officer Handbook)
The Special Education Dispute Resolution Manual describes the due process hearing procedures in detail. It outlines the mediation and due process procedures for all three age groups.

Based on procedural changes, and anticipated required changes from final regulations for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act ("IDEA 2004"), this manual will be updated as needed.  Until such time that updates/changes are incorporated into the actual Manual, any updates will be listed under "Updates to the Special Education Dispute Resolution Manual" found under "What's New?" on ODR's Home Page.

This Manual is under revision in light of regulatory changes.  For inquiries regarding parent rights and procedural safeguards, please contact the Special Education ConsultLine at 1-800-879-2301.  For questions regarding due process, please contact Lori Shafer, Case Manager, at 1-800-222-3353, Ext. 3319.  For questions regarding Mediation, please contact Judy Shanabrough, Case Manager, at 1-800-222-3353, Ext. 3301.

View the Special Education Dispute Resolution Manual.

View the Updates to the Special Education Dispute Resolution Manual.