Licensed for 15 years

State CA

Acquired 2007

Status
Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

David Ward German

Education Attorney at Sherman Oaks, CA

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Absolutely recommend

Wonderful Attorney

David German is an amazing attorney. He is really smart, fair, and responsive. He got us a better than expected result...twice. As an educator in special education, I see a lot of attorneys, and it was hard to think of hiring one myself, but David came highly recommended (by our in house legal counsel, which says a lot!) as someone who would be fair, and reasonable, but a very strong attorney. To say we were pleased with him would be an understatement. He explained things to us about the process that needed explaining, and his filings explained the issues in a clear, concise, and powerful manner. He responded to emails and calls, and I highly recommend him.

About David

Learn David’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Education

70%

My practice is devoted to the educational rights of students with disabilities. My primary areas of focus are special education due process and civil rights matters. I also handle discipline matters arising within all types of educational settings.
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15 years
Civil rights

15%

I handle disability discrimination and equal access matters that arise within a K-12 educational setting.

15 years
Personal injury

15%

I have won tens of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for students with disabilities who have been harmed by school personnel or injured due to negligent supervision.

15 years

FIGHTING FOR THE RIGHTS OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES THROUGHOUT CALIFORNIA.

My practice is devoted to advancing the educational rights of students with disabilities throughout California. My primary areas of focus are special education due process and civil rights matters. I have also won tens of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for students who have been harmed or abused while on campus.

Awards

Client's Choice

2023 2022 2021 + 3 ...

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Contact David

Vanaman German LLP

(818) 452-2865 Office

14001 Ventura Boulevard

Sherman Oaks, CA, 91423

vanamangerman.com/

Message Get Directions

Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

83 customer reviews

5 Star

99%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.

Posted by Emily | April 14, 2022

Absolutely recommend

David has proven to be an invaluable asset in our lives. Whether navigating the school system or just getting his opinion, we are eternally grateful for his expertise and guidance. Furthermore, we have no inclination to move forward with anything legally until David is in agreement. He has been nothing but wonderful.

Posted by Stephanie | June 11, 2020

Wonderful Attorney

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Posted by Marisa | May 18, 2021

Exceeded my expectations

David German by far exceeded our expectations as a special education attorney and advocate. As an educator myself, I was hitting many roadblock with my son's school district and he was instrumental in breaking down the barriers that impeded my son's success. He truly understood my son's needs and demonstrated a passion for helping children with disabilities. I found Mr. German to very professional, reassuring, and an expert in his field. I would highly recommend Mr. German to any any family who needs someone to advocate for their child in special education.

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Posted by anonymous | May 21, 2021

Great Experience

David was recommended by our advocate and he was exactly what we needed. After years of back and forth with the district and getting no where, David was able to get us what we needed to get the help we needed. In the last six weeks we have had more progress than the school district had in seven years.

Posted by Carolyn | January 30, 2021

The Best.

David German has been a godsend. If it wasn't for his help, my daughter would still be at the mercy of a faulty IEP team that was not providing the FAPE that is required by the school district. David is genuinely kind and caring. I could not have wished for anyone better to have represented us in getting the help we needed. Thank you David!

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Posted by Lisa | September 11, 2020

Wonderful Attorney

David came recommended from a mom group. Our son was not receiving the services per his IEP so we contacted David. Immediately, I was impressed with his calm confidence. He was really good at communicating the process and our rights. We felt assured with David's experience in representing us. Since our trial, my son is now receiving an appropriate education and the district is honoring his IEP. David was very supportive and we are grateful to have met him and have him represent us. Our son, is learning again and getting his needs met from his team. I would highly recommend David for your special education needs.

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Posted by Charles | April 29, 2020

So Fortunate To Have David As Our Atty,

Just have to say that David is one of THE BEST educational attorneys out there. He is insightful and assertive when it came to handling our case and we always felt confidence in his knowledge of the public and private school system as he always knew exactly what we needed to do and how to do it. We received outstanding service and professionalism from him and the results of our case prove just how good he really is! So thankful we were referred to him from multiple parents in and around LA County as they all agree that he is extremely effective in cases dealing with special needs children. We saw him as a 'legal surgeon'. He is precise, knowledgeable, and completely in control of frustrating situations which can arise from dealing with the school district. He delivered unprecedented results with the outcome we received from our case and I don't think the school district knew what hit them! I would not hesitate to recommend David to anyone needing an educational attorney.

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Posted by anonymous | June 19, 2019

Very knowledgeable and caring!! We highly recommend him

We had a very hard time with our school district on right placement and other issues for our son. when no one was ready to take up the case David stood so strong and gave us confidence. He is very knowledgeable and very caring. We would highly recommended him for anyone who is looking for a very strong attorney.

Posted by Lorena | September 22, 2023

Excellent Legal Assistance for Education-Related Services

David proved to be an excellent assistance in our search for a lawyer to assist us in receiving the educational services our daughter needs. He gave us the legal help we needed during a trying time with his knowledge, concern and dedication to getting things done. We strongly recommend David and his law practice to anybody looking for a sympathetic and knowledgeable advocate in education-related legal concerns.

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Posted by Sarah | September 22, 2023

Remarkable Results!

David German at Vanaman German is a remarkable attorney and is genuinely passionate about educational rights. He handled my son’s case quickly and efficiently, I couldn’t believe it! I wish I would have known about him sooner. If you’re looking for an attorney who will give you a clear plan of action, set expectations, advocate for your family, and get the job done, this is your guy!

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Posted by Jen | September 21, 2023

Home Run. Strong Recommend.

Home Run. David German is head and shoulder above any special education attorney. His reputation and methods work wonders with public school districts. When we had no hope and an extremely resistant school district, he created a win-win environment. We returned with service beyond our expectations and afterward had a better working relationship with the district employee. He is honest about your case, sets clear expectations, and takes the time to listen and explain. He even has extensive experience with therapeutic boarding school placements and payments.

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Posted by anonymous | August 15, 2023

Highly recommended

David German came highly recommended to us and we could not be happier with the results. David is an extremely knowledgeable attorney who explained the process from beginning to end. He was supportive and dedicated to our daughter’s case. He was quick to answer any questions we had. When it came time to deal with the school district, David was strong and professional. He understood what our daughter needed and was successful in obtaining it for her. Because of David, we know that our daughter is now on the right path to receive the best education. We highly recommend David to any parent looking for a strong advocate for their child’s education.

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Posted by Richard | August 14, 2023

Best attorney

David is a fantastic and very professional. I'd recommend David to any family who need education-related issue.

Posted by anonymous | July 11, 2023

Seamless Process

Usually lawsuits are icky and worrisome and requires a lot of thought. David made this entire process easy and pain-free. He shielded me from the process and got me the settlement I wanted. What a wonderful experience, compared to the nightmare this could've been.

Posted by Amanda | July 10, 2023

Excellent and compassionate

I worked with David German who is excellent and compassionate. His knowledge of special education law is obviously exhaustive, and he is highly skilled at translating that complexity to clients. His staff are professional and kind and respond to emails and phone calls very quickly. Above all David's compassion centers the child at the heart of special education, making him a fierce advocate. I'm grateful to have been represented by him and his firm and highly recommend him.

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Posted by Megan | July 4, 2023

Highly recommend David German

My family and I are grateful for David German and his team. They all worked extremely hard on my sons case, He was facing an expulsion from CNUSD , David listened to our family's needs/request. My son is able to go back to school in August due to David reversing the Expulsion. If you are ever in need of a lawyer| would recommend David German and his team. They will fight for your education.

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Posted by Debbie | July 4, 2023

Exceptional Lawyer and wonderful team!

I highly recommend David German of Vanaman German LLP, for anyone who needs legal assistance with education-related issues. He was professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate throughout the entire process. He helped our family resolve a complex and stressful situation with our Grandchild’s school district and ensured that his rights were protected. He was always responsive, clear, and honest with us. We felt confident that he had our Grandchild's best interests at heart and for that, we are so very grateful. David is truly an exceptional lawyer and a great advocate for his clients. Thank you, David (and team), for your outstanding service and support!

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Posted by Christina | June 21, 2023

David German high recommended

I was referred to David during an extreme struggle with the school district and didn’t know where to turn to, but really needed help navigating and getting my concerns, and my sons needs met. David without hesitation, listened and supported me and advised me on what my options were. With his guidance, We were able to come to an agreement with the school district that ultimately is getting my son the help that he truly needs and honestly probably saving his life. I am forever grateful for David and his knowledge guidance and support. I highly recommend his services.

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Posted by Rachel | April 22, 2023

Wonderful Attorney and Advocate

David German was a fantastic attorney for our family. We were stuck on how to properly handle an IEP and he helped us navigate getting it back on track. He also did a great job negotiating with the school district and getting what we deserve as a family. He is smart and compassionate. H e is responsive and a real advocate for children and their families. I would 100% recommend David!

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Posted by Christina | April 5, 2023

Forever grateful

Our family is so grateful to David German. Not only for the great results, executed in a timely manner. But the assurances and support during a very overwhelming and difficult time were very much appreciated. Thank you for all that you do VanamanGerman! Words can’t really express just how grateful we are.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Managing Partner
Vanaman German LLP
2020 - Present

Partner
Newman Aaronson Vanaman
2015 - Present

Lecturer in Law, Special Education Clinic
UCLA School of Law
2015 - 2016

Associate
Newman Aaronson Vanaman
2012 - 2015

Pro Se Habeas Clerk
Central District Of California, Los Angeles, California
2006 - 2007

Judicial Extern to Judge Margaret Morrow
Central District Of California, Los Angeles, California
2005 - 2005

Judicial Extern to Judge Stephen Reinhardt
Ninth Circuit Court Of Appeals
2004 - 2004

View all work experience

Education

University of Southern California
PhD - Doctorate
2009

USC Law School
JD - Juris Doctor
2006

Univ of Pennsylvania
BA - Bachelor of Arts
N/A

Legal Cases

M.C. v. Los Angeles Unified School District, et. al, CACD Case No.: 2:20-cv-09127-CBM-E
Reversal of Administrative Decision on All Issues

D.R. v. Redondo Beach Unified School District, 56 F.4th 636 (9th Cir. 2022)
Prevailed on core legal issue.

C.W. et al., v. Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District
Jury awarded $45,000,000.00 in damages.

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Associations

Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates
N/A

Languages Spoken

Spanish

Honors and Awards

Top 100 Verdicts in America 2022
National Law Journal - Top 100 Verdicts in America, 2022
2023

Top Verdict - 13th Biggest Verdict in California
Top Verdict - 13th Biggest Verdict in California [2022]
2023

Client Champion Award
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

Student of the Year Award
University of Southern California Public Interest Law Foundation
2006

Edward and Eleanor Shattuck Award
University of Southern California Law School
2006

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Publications

IEPs and 504 Plans: A Legal Compliance Guide
504 Plan Reviews and Reevaluations: Legal Best Practices
2018

Ph.D. dissertation, University of Southern California
Cause and consequence: confronting ethical challenges in models of morally informed legal practice
2009

Speaking Engagements

Invited Speaker
Addressing Learning Loss Through the IEP Process
2022

IEPs and 504 Plans: A Legal Compliance Guide
504 Plan Reviews and Reevaluations: Legal Best Practices
2018

IEPs and 504 Plans: A Legal Compliance Guide
Handling IEP and 504 Plan Disputes
2018

IEP and 504 Plan Legal Workshop Training Seminar
Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs), and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs): Ensuring Best Practices
2018

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Attorney endorsements

Received (6)

Given (30)

Endorse David

Kevin Lahue

Education Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"David is a consummate legal expert in the often complicated morass of Education Law. Our firm never hesitates to refer him a case in this area and he has achieved incredible results for our mutual clients."

Omar Qureshi

Education Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"David German is one of the top education lawyers in the country. We worked together on a couple of matters, and I've seen firsthand how school districts, education attorneys, and even judges have tremendous respect for David. His reputation is well-earned. He does everything well. He cares for his clients, and they care for him. He is an outstanding strategic thinker, he is well-connected, he litigates cases well, he examines witnesses well, and he negotiates well, among other things. If my children needed an advocate, I would call David first. He is the best in the field, and it won't take long for you to see why."

Susan Bliziotis

Education Attorney | Apr 16
Relationship: Co-worker

"David German has a remarkably nimble and creative legal mind along with exemplary legal skills in all areas of practice. His clients are able to entrust him with their child's educational needs due to his to fierce advocacy on their behalf and his ability to obtain outstanding results for their child. David has become a leader in this area of law because of his fierce commitment to student civil rights coupled with his well honed legal skills. Lastly, as a colleague he is generous with his willingness to help analyze a case. His reasoning and insights are consistently helpful."

Maria Hall

Civil rights Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I first met David German while we were students at USC Law School. I'm fortunate to have had many opportunities to volunteer alongside him on several occasions. He is not only one of the smartest people I know, but is also one of the most caring, kind and trustworthy people I know. I have 100% faith in him, and if I needed a lawyer for myself or my family, I wouldn't hesitate to hire David."

Henry Tovmassian

Education Attorney | Jun 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse David. He is very knowledgeable and works tenaciously for his clients."

Alexis Casillas

Education Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. David works diligently to represent his clients effectively and in a manner that suits each of his clients' unique personality and needs. This level of conscientiousness and strategic flexibility sets him apart and makes him an attorney I enjoy collaborating with."

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