David Dickey is a passionate and unwavering special education attorney, educator, and appellate advocate committed to helping vulnerable children and families navigate complex educational and legal systems. He has helped hundreds of underprivileged families advocate for stronger IEPs, appropriate assessments, services, accommodations, and educational placements.

David’s legal experience also includes representing parents in juvenile dependency proceedings and handling dependency appeals throughout California. In dependency court, he conducted daily high-stakes negotiations with multiple attorneys while guiding parents through one of the most vulnerable periods of their lives. His appellate practice has strengthened his ability to analyze complex records, identify critical issues, and develop persuasive legal strategies. He has also taught legal writing as an adjunct professor at the University of West Los Angeles School of Law.

Prior to his legal career, David owned a successful behavior and dog training business that handled complex behavioral issues and provided service dogs for children with autism. He appeared regularly on Good Day LA as a behavior expert and published a newspaper column, magazine articles, and a scientific journal article. David believes meaningful advocacy begins with listening, trust, and collaboration. He remains calm under pressure, builds productive relationships, and works tirelessly to ensure each child’s needs are understood, their voice is heard, and their educational rights are protected.

Practice Areas

• Special Education

• Dependency Law

• Appellate Advocacy

Strengths

• Strategic

• Achiever

• Self-Assurance

• Learner

• Futuristic

Education

• University of West Los Angeles School of Law – Juris Doctor

Bar and Court Admissions

• State Courts of California

Foreign Languages Spoken

• Spanish