Sam Jesse Paneno

Sam has the unique experience of being both a school district attorney and an advocate for children and their parents. Originally, Sam learned to be a school district attorney from a pioneer of special education law. Shortly thereafter, his calling was to serve a less fortunate population, so Sam focused his practice on the special education needs of foster care children.  

Sam built one of the largest non-profit special education practices in Southern California. While serving in this capacity, he provided a multitude of direct services to a diverse population. Additionally, Sam had the privilege of teaching people how to successfully navigate special education law--everyone from grandparents, with little or no formal education, to judges and partners of prestigious law firms.  

Bringing his unique skills to private practice, Sam is a firm believer in demystifying the complexities of special education law for parents, so you can become an active participant in your child's advocacy. Nobody knows your child better than you. 

In 1999, Sam suffered a college football injury that almost took his life and left him permanently physically disabled. His positive outlook during this time surprisingly garnered the attention of national media and organizations, leading to several distinguished awards. Ultimately, Sam's injury served as the catalyst for joining his passion for social justice with the desire to assist disabled children.