Gina M. DeCrescenzo

We were seeking legal advice after school administrators did not properly document or address a physical assault against our daughter in school. She was mocked for her disability during the attack, and there was a history of previous 504 violations that we tolerated out of a desire to maintain a goo...d working relationship with the district. We were turned away by many firms and told that they only handle IEPs, represent districts, or didn’t handle cases like ours. Gina’s paralegal was caring and informative in our initial call. She gave us hope and reassurance and was very transparent about the consultation process and any associated fees. She would continue this support throughout the process and was always available with guidance, itemized bills delivered on the first of each month, and quick responses to any phone calls or emails. If we needed to speak to Gina directly she often returned a phone call within minutes. Gina was extremely helpful to us in our consultation. She listened, clarified events as needed and then discussed all options available to us. She was considerate of our desire to seek a fair outcome through negotiating with the district. She was able to negotiate a settlement that paid for our daughter to attend a local private school (around $70,000 in total)for all four years. Our daughter feels safe and is flourishing there, and the school implemented all 504 accommodations . Gina even negotiated for the home district to continue providing a bus monitor until she graduates. We are so grateful to Gina and her team, I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone needing help with any matter related to education. She is knowledgeable, advises realistic and attainable goals, and goes to every effort to make the process as easy as possible.

Gina is an outstanding attorney who will make sure your child will receive the proper educational services. She is a true professional who answers immediately and makes sure you are informed. Her knowledge and skills as an attorney are incredible. I highly recommend Gina! I met with other attorneys a...nd chose Gina because I instantly knew she was going to fight for my child. I am so thrilled with the outcome that Gina was able to secure for my child.

Two years ago I set out to find an attorney who possessed the qualities I knew were necessary to prevail in assuring my son was provided what every child is entitled to under the law - a Free, Appropriate, Public Education. I had intended to interview 3 or 4 attorneys. Following my instincts, I met... first with Gina. Thereafter, there was no reason to meet anyone else. I studied her face and eyes as she read through my outline describing how my son had not only been chronically denied a FAPE, but was harmed by a District that simply did not care and placed him in programs that were merely available rather than appropriate. Although I am certain a part of her exquisitely analytical and razor-sharp mind was tallying up many IDEA violations as she read, more important to me as a father I could see Gina was truly compassionate, and genuinely indignant – as if my child was a member of her family. I instantly had an ally who not only got it, but had a need to make it right. After spending about an hour talking, I left with a feeling of confidence and calm that if it could be done, Gina could, and would, do it. I couldn't agree more with all of the comments left by others in this forum. Gina truly is brilliant, committed, vibrant and energetic, and has the insight, experience and legal expertise to ensure your child has the best opportunity for a happy, productive and independent life that a FAPE can provide. Gina embodies the spirit and intent of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. She is a fabulous attorney and child advocate and a wonderful person. She is making a difference, once child at a time. And yes, we prevailed at our Due Process Hearing and won reimbursement of tuition (no simple task) for an appropriate placement where my son thrived – for the first time in his school life. It's been a pleasure and honor to work with Gina for my son, and I'll always consider her a friend.

I've worked in education for my entire career. Like many other industries you mainly deal with professionals who treat their careers like a 9-5 and have no zeal for their business. Gina is very different. I have consulted with Gina on numerous education issues. Gina started her career practicing la...w in the mortgage/landlord tenant space and set a major precedent helping thousands across the country (http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/15/nyregion/patience-grows-thin-for-banks-foreclosure-excuses.html?_r=0). Gina could have continued down this track and had a fruitful career. Instead she chose to change her career path to help get needy children more resources. Gina applies her tenacity and wit to fight for people in a cause that she is deeply passionate about. If you want an attorney that will steer you in the right direction and give you the best advice you should contact her.

Gina was recomended to my by another attorney, due to her knowledge and reputation. I had a bad situation with my sons educational rights. I had only 2 days to get someone to help me. I called several attorneys who didnt even want to know my name. I called Gina. She responded within 24hrs, heard me ...and took my sons case. In my eyes she will always be my sons guaridan angel. SHe worked day and night for us, She gave my sons future back to him. Plus introduced us to programs that would also help his future. I am forever grateful to her, anyone who hires this woman will not be disapointed, she is brilliant and she is true and most of all honest and careing. These kids are lucky to have someone like she. Thank u Gina, and may u always have great sucess. She puts her heart into everything she touches.