LaRana J. Owens
LaRana represents public school divisions across Virginia. She works closely with school administrators to navigate complex legal issues and resolve disputes efficiently and effectively. LaRana has experience in special education matters, representing Virginia school divisions in complex due process proceedings. She routinely advises school divisions on compliance with federal and state laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and student discipline matters.
In addition to special education, LaRana provides legal guidance to school divisions responding to complaints and investigations initiated by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights and the Virginia Department of Education. She also assists school divisions with internal investigations involving allegations of discrimination and retaliation and advises School Board Disciplinary Committees on student matters. Her practice further includes representing school divisions in truancy proceedings.
LaRana represents school divisions in administrative proceedings and litigation arising from the complex regulatory environment in public education. She regularly handles special education due process hearings, which often serve as the primary for developing the factual record in disputes. She has experience representing school divisions in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Her practice also includes representing clients in administrative proceedings and government investigations, where she works to resolve matters effectively while protecting her clients’ interests.
When not supporting clients with steadfast guidance, she enjoys reading and cooking.
“Much of our team’s success is due to LaRana’s guidance and encouragement. We consider ourselves lucky to be able to work with her.”
Client
