I have an autistic child and we needed some legal help obtaining services from the LAUSD. I heard a lot about Mrs. Vanaman herself, all positive stuff. However, instead of... read more Mrs. Vanaman, I ended up with one of the lawyers she has working for her firm. He offered to help us for free, getting paid by the future settlement with the LAUSD.
Therein laid the problem. This lawyer ended up doing EVERYTHING to obtain this settlement, INSTEAD of obtaining the services our child needed. Unfortunately, we discovered the compromised nature of this deal only a few days before the school year, with our back against the wall, being pushed by our OWN legal representative to settle on a major compromise!
The lawyer's name is Bryan Winn, the last name meaning something totally opposite from end result of his work!
Throughout the process, he was perpetually unprepared, caught off guard, never guided us in terms of what to do and choices available in dealing with school. Although very likable, likability is the last thing a parent needs in fighting for the best services his/her disabled child is entitled to. What one needs is a tough, knowledgeable professional able and willing to fight for your child's needs within the legal guidelines. This was not what we got with Mr. Winn.
I complained about Mr. Winn to a few people I knew, including our pediatrician who knew everyone. She told me that she'd heard about Mr. Winn's 'tactics' and was not surprised I was unhappy.
I strongly advise parents NOT to use his services available at this, otherwise, reputable firm.
Having said that... perhaps Mrs. Vanaman knows what he is doing and enjoys getting a cut, keeping her hands clean. Who knows. I apologize if this is offensive but if Mr. Winn continues to do what he does, Mr. Vanaman's firm will no longer remain reputable.
Sofia Bliziotis at Newman Aaronson & Vanaman seems like she truly loves what she does . She made a huge positive impact on my son's life and I am so... read more 
Svetlana A.
Alexander P.