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James Michael Baron

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Avvo Rating10
  • Waltham, MA
  • Licensed for 13 years
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About James

The majority of my my practice centers around legal issues between students and schools.  This issue is my passion.  Clients range from pre-Kindergarten through graduate schools.  I also maintain a significant estate planning practice, including estate planning for families with special needs children.  In addition to my J.D., I also have a Master's Degree in Education and a teaching certification.  I am a member of the bar in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Florida.

 

I attended Suffolk Law School as an evening student, working full-time to support my family.  While at Suffolk, I earned a spot on the Law Review, where I focused my research and writing on the issue of the MCAS graduation requirement as it relates to children with special needs.  I graduated from Suffolk cum laude.

 

In my personal life, I serve as Vice President and on the Board of Directors of Temple Beth Israel in Waltham.  I also serve on the Board of Directors of two other organizations: the Waltham Community Foundation, a charitable organization that provides financial assistance to charities that benefit the people of Waltham, as well as GWARC, which assists people with intellectual challenges.

 

I am married, and have one daughter.  I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, playing the piano, playing golf, and watching the Red Sox.

Practice areas

Education
  1. Education: 100%

    I work with clients at all levels, from pre-K through graduate schools. Typical issues involve students with disabilities and/or disciplinary issues. My goal is to work zealously, yet in a positive and respectful fashion, to ensure that schools provide appropriate services and accommodations, and that my clients' rights are not being violated.

    13 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

1777315 1291839896

Contact

395 Totten Pond Road
address map

Law Office of James M. Baron

395 Totten Pond Road
Suite 101
Waltham, MA, 02451

Special Education Blog

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
FLMember in Good Standing200812/20/2020
MAActive200712/02/2020
NHActive200703/05/2009
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers29
Legal guides1
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Rising StarSuper Lawyers2014
Rising StarSuper Lawyers2013
Rising StarSuper Lawyers2012
Client's Choice AwardAvvo2012
Rising StarSuper Lawyers2011
Make New Friends AwardGirl Scouts2010
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Attorney at LawLaw Office of James M. Baron2007 - Present
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
GWARC (Greater Waltham Arc)Board Member2010 - Present
SPAN (Special Needs Advocacy Network)Member2010 - Present
COPAA (Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates)Member2008 - Present
Massachusetts Bar AssociationMember2007 - Present
Temple Beth IsraelVice President2005 - Present
Waltham Community FoundationBoard of Directors2003 - Present
Temple Beth IsraelBoard of Directors1990 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember2011 - 2012
Waltham Community FoundationPast President2003 - 2009
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
National Law ReviewExpelled Student's ADA Claim Against Law School Can Proceed2009
Suffolk Law ReviewWhen Good Intentions Go Bad: The MCAS Graduation Requirement and Special Education Children2006
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Suffolk University Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor2007
Emmanuel CollegeM.Ed.1990
Brandeis UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts1985
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
COPAA 2015Running Your Own Special Education Law Practice2015
COPAA 2014Running Your Own Special Education Law Practice2014
How to Start and Run a Solo PracticeHow to Start and Run a Solo Practice2012
Visions of CommunitySpecial Education Law: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder2011
How to Start and Run a Solo PracticeHow to Start and Run a Solo Practice2011
WebinarIntroduction to Special Education Law2010
MCLE School LawSchool Law2010
How to Start and Run a Solo PracticeHow to Start and Run a Solo Practice2010
AANE Asperger's ConferenceAsperger Syndrome and Special Education Law2010
Brachial Plexus Gathering504's, IEP's, and Brachial Plexus Injury2009
Autism and Special Education LawAutism and Special Education Law2008
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
Student v. Belmont Public SchoolsStudent with high functioning autism was found eligible for special education services

Reviews

(23)
5 Star
100%
4 Star
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1 Star
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Review James Baron

Fantastic

Posted by

2 minutes ago We hired Jim Baron as he was recommended to us by our educational advocate for help with a school matter. From the beginning, Jim was professional, knowledgeable and respectful of our feelings. He was upfront regarding costs and highly organized. He understood that this was a very difficult situation from a parent's perspective. He helped us prepare the best case we could and was flexible with strategy throughout. Jim was always prompt in replying to vm or emails. He was always honest with his opinion even if it wasn't what I wanted to hear, he was the objective voice we needed. We were very pleased with the manner in which our case was resolved and wouldn't hesitate to call upon Jim again.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Special Education Attorney For The People

Posted by

If you need an attorney that has your best interests in mind and represents you with his heart and personal involvement versus just from an office full of books or a large firm where you can feel like a case number instead of an individual..... Then pick James M. Baron, Esq., M.Ed. of Waltham, MA. He did an outstanding job representing me and my family on a very difficult case that most lawyers we researched wouldn't have pursued. He took the time to get to know us as well as all the information that came along with the case and treated us as people. He was open to our suggestions and never made us feel like we had no voice in all of the proceedings. Definitely a top-notch attorney that can rub elbows with any high-power attorney out there and come out with awesome results.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great Attorney

Posted by

We were very happy with the results of our case thanks to Jim’s guidance and expertise. He was honest and upfront when discussing the details of our case. Jim’s communication with us was excellent. He promptly returned our phone calls and emails, honestly answering any questions we had. Jim’s attorney fees were clearly outlined and explained to us, along with options for payment. We would highly recommend Attorney Baron to families who need legal expertise pertaining to the education of their special needs child.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Sound Advice

Posted by

Attorney Baron assisted us with a daunting issue dealing with a large educational institution. He prioritized supporting us in our advocacy efforts instead of quickly pursuing litigation. He was always mindful of our son's best interests and our family's well being. He connected us with key resources to help us advocate. This resulted in a significant victory for our son and for many other students with disabilities.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Best of the best

Posted by

We hired Jim after speaking with 10+ other special education attorney's to handle our very complex case involving our young child with autism. After 2 minutes from speaking with Jim, it was obvious he was the clear choice and we retained him immediately. Jim was always available whether it was late at night, on weekends and holidays and was extremely transparent about fees and the status and strength of our case at all times. He guided us in the right direction from what was (in his words) one of the more complex cases he had ever seen. He handled things masterfully and the end result was a very positive outcome for our child. Jim is someone who is extremely trustworthy and a true professional. I would no doubt hire Jim again in the future and could not recommend him highly enough.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent attorney

Posted by

When we realized that we needed to sue our school district with respect to our daughter's special needs education, I had no idea who to approach despite having trained as an attorney. Attorney Baron was recommended to us and from the first moment I met him, I realized I had totally lucked out. Not only was he personable, knowledgeable and understanding but he was also honest and practical. Throughout our dealings I always felt fully informed; emails and phone calls were always returned promptly. He did not sugar coat where we stood but gave us a true understanding of what we could realistically hope to achieve. Negotiations were stressful but he was very tactical in his approach. He was very careful with my money and focused so that money wasn't wasted on reports that weren't needed. He absorbed much of the stress associated with the litigation. He managed to reach a settlement on our behalf that was better than we had hoped for. We would highly recommend Attorney Baron.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

James Baron review

Posted by

I was looking for a special needs attorney and James Baron came highly recommended. We met and I knew he would be right for our case. He was knowledgeable and I trusted him with very sensitive details about our case and about our child. He made me feel comfortable and offered key advice that enabled a swift resolution to our case. I highly recommend him for anyone looking for a special needs attorney.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

A gifted advocate for kids and parents

Posted by

If you and your child are struggling against an intractable school district that isn't fulfilling it's obligations to help kids who need it, just call Jim. I know this sounds like a advertisement, but it's true. James Baron is truly a caring and calm advocate who helps parents understand their options and how to go up against the district. He is extremely well-versed in education law, having achieved a Master's degree in education as well as his legal training. He doesn't behave aggressively, but his confident knowledge of right and wrong has a way of getting people's attention without antagonizing them. He helped run interference for us when the district and their lawyer were behaving in an aggressively ignorant way. We think we're very close to the end of this nightmare, and it's all because of Jim. He's calm, unflappable, very effective and very professional. Plus he's just an all-around nice guy. I highly recommend him to anyone.

Thank you!

Posted by

We have a six year old diagnosed Autism Spectrum son, with side diagnosis of ADHD and other sensory and processing issues. We spent the last three years battling with almost everyone telling us he was mis-diagnosed and we were wrong. We hired two advocates; however nice persons they were, it did not get the job done we needed. Within a few months, Attorney Baron met with us, reassured us, assisted in organizing us and got us what was needed, required and legally ours from the public school system. Since this time our son is still receiving services and the school wants to provide more willingly. It is sad we had to resort to this measure; We did everything we were told to; everything professional Dr.s told us to, and he was re-evaluated 4-5 times diagnosed each time. Not only did we feel comfortable with Attorney Baron but his own life story and situations allow you to feel how much he cares and wants the best for your child. I understand Advocates are truly needed, and we are following up with one now. However I wish I had originally spoken to Attorney Baron and saved us the time, money and stress the school caused before we hired him. Until the schools and other recognize these children and trust the parents who are heartfully advocating for their well being, I would highly recommend Attorney Baron. We continue to speak to him and have him monitor our case to assure our son's highest level of Education is received properly! Thank you Attorney Baron!

Extremely Satisfied Client

Posted by

James Baron was always professional and courteous. He kept us informed, and immediately returned all of our calls and emails. James understood our needs and worked diligently to resolve our case quickly.
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Attorney endorsements

(17)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Michael Gerace, General practice Attorney on Sep 8, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Awesome attorney. Highly respected in the legal community.

Corine Claxton, Education Attorney on Jul 14, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I had the pleasure of interviewing James Baron on Mass Law Radio. His knowledge of special education law is impressive. With great detail and clarity, Attorney Baron explained the process parents of special needs students must go through in order to access resources for their children. I endorse this lawyer.

Terri Leary, Education Attorney on Oct 22, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have consulted with him and confidently refer all education law inquiries to him.

Karla Mansur, Education Attorney on May 25, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Carolan Hardy, Education Attorney on Feb 19, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. James and I are members of an attorney group. James despite his solo practice is always there to answer questions and assist others. I recommend this attorney for anyone who needs an attorney for an education matter.

Shani Collymore, Education Attorney on Aug 15, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Attorney Baron is well respected by both attorneys and clients in the legal community. It is with great pleasure that I endorse this lawyer.

Travis Jacobs, Education Attorney on Jan 27, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have known Attorney Baron for several years through an attorney networking group. Attorney Baron has demonstrated he has excellent experience in and knowledge of Education Law. He regularly provides valuable legal advice and suggestions to his colleagues. I would refer any Education Law-related cases to Attorney Baron without hesitation.

Nicholas Keramaris, Education Attorney on Dec 27, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Jim is my "go to guy" for education law questions. He is highly knowledgeable and also easy to get along with. I fully endorse his work.

Audrey O'Shaughnessy, Education Attorney on Dec 6, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Jim Baron is a colleague and now a friend as well. Jim is professional, intelligent, and kind, and he is a strong advocate for his clients. He has a Masters in education in addition to his law degree, which gives him a unique and valuable perspective for his cases. Jim is passionate about his practice, and I endorse him without reservations.

John Kirwan, Education Attorney on Oct 27, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer's work.

Richard Kell, Education Attorney on Oct 19, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

As a professional colleague, I know that Jim is a highly experienced and knowledgeable education law attorney. I recently had the opportunity to attend one of his seminars and can personally attest to his level of expertise. Jim is not only extremely dedicated to serving his clients, he is also committed to educating other attorneys in his field of practice. I would recommend Jim wholeheartedly to anyone in need of his services.

Kimberly Bova, Education Attorney on Oct 19, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

James works hard for the Children and Families of this community. I would refer my family and friends as well as clients to James for his services.

Jennifer DiCarlo, Education Attorney on Oct 17, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

It is with great pleasure that I endorse this attorney's work. In fact, I have referred potential clients to Attorney Baron because I trust that he will be able to provide them with the necessary guidance to resolve their education law related issues. Upon speaking with Attorney Baron, his expertise and genuine interest in this area of the law is quite evident as is the fact that he cares a great deal for his clients.

Shanda Tinney, Education Attorney on Aug 20, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Jim Baron is an excellent attorney. He knows the law and is able to help clients navigate the legal system with compassion and concern.

Jonas Jacobson, Education Attorney on Aug 20, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I refer clients in need of special education services to Jim Baron from time to time. He has a good reputation in Boston.

Gabriel Cheong, Education Attorney on Apr 23, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I've known Jim for several years now through various attorney groups and interactions. In my dealings with him and conversations with Jim, I've found him to be engaging and thorough in his work with his clients. He's dedicated to defending parents, children, and students who get caught up in the educational system and he fights hard to defend them. I endorse Jim Baron as a terrific education lawyer.

Lillian Wong, Education Attorney on Apr 11, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer's work.

Cost

RATES
  • Hourly Rates$200-$250/hour
    PAYMENT METHODS

    Cash, Check, Credit Card