Should I hire a solicitor for declining an EHCP?

[OnlyHam]

A letter arrived today, declining an ehcp for DC. I’m planning to appeal but do I need a solicitor? I hope not!

I will base my argument on the idea that DC will simply not get any of the provision they need without an EHCP.

No need for that

you need medical professionals opinion

I won’t need legal advice, that’s a positive.

I do have reports, however, the authority did not use them.

Paying for legal advice isn’t necessary, although some choose to. Check whether you are eligible for legal aid.

How old are the independent reports?

@OvertakenByLego Not eligible for legal aid. The reports we do have are less than 1 year old.

If the reports will be older than a year by the time of the hearing you may want to consider having them updated. Previously reports were considered up to date for around 2 years, but over the last few years SENDIST have considered reports much younger out of date.

Very likely they will be out of date as I know hearings are such long waits at the moment. I may have to organise re assessment. Thank you .