a youth (17 years or younger)

Explains how a child can become legally independent from their parents.

Learn about the formal investigation process by Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).

Learn about the restrictions for drivers under 18 including curfew hours, passenger limitations, and seat belt requirements.

Learn about when children can start working, work permits, and the restrictions on the hours and types of work children can do.

Learn about when a student may be eligible for a 504 plan, how 504 plans are different than IEPs, and what to do if you disagree with the school about a 504 plan.

Information about high school graduation requirements for students in Illinois. The law also requires that all high school students take a statewide assessment and fill out a FAFSA form.

Describes when children may receive outpatient mental health care without parental consent, and explains the special rules that govern the hospitalization and discharge of children from mental health care facilities.

Learn how to ask the school to evaluate your child for special education and related services.

Learn how the testing process for special education works and the eligibility criteria for children to qualify for help.

A student with a disability can be suspended for the same reasons as a student without a disability. But there is a limit to how many days a student with a disability may be suspended in the same school year.

Explains why your child can be suspended and how long a suspension can last

Describes the process of expelling a student with disabilities.

Explains students' privacy rights and how to access their school records.

Describes how mediation may be useful when resolving conflicts about Special Education.

Learn how to spot, prevent, and report bullying at school.

Learn about the overall process for children to get special education services, including testing, creating an IEP, and what to do when you disagree with the school.