Mary C. Vargas

Stein & Vargas

Stein & Vargas is at the forefront of advocacy on behalf of individuals with severe food allergies and anaphylaxis and represents those with food allergies in achieving safe and inclusive access in all parts of society.

Ms. Vargas is committed to ensuring full and equal access for all individuals. She has litigated landmark cases pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act throughout the United States in federal and state courts including Argenyi v. Creighton University, Featherstone v. Pacific Northwest University, and J.D. v. Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.  Ms. Vargas speaks nationally on issues including disability discrimination, food allergies and anaphylaxis, and Celiac Disease.

Prior to joining Stein & Vargas, LLP, Ms. Vargas was a staff attorney with the National Association of the Deaf.  Ms. Vargas was the 2017 winner of the FARE Vision Award and the 2010 recipient of the Advocacy for People with Pain Award from the American Academy of Pain Management. Ms. Vargas served on the expert panel to develop Voluntary Recommendations for Managing Celiac Disease in Schools, Child Care and Education Programs, a joint effort of Children’s National Medical Center, the Celiac Disease Foundation, and RESOLVE. Ms. Vargas was a 1998 Skadden Fellow and a 1994 Truman Scholar. She also wrote for the American Bar Association, Mental and Physical Disability Law Reporter and co-authored the Fifth Edition of Legal Rights, A Guide for Deaf and Hard of Hearing People.

Ms. Vargas obtained a B.S. in deaf education from the College of New Jersey, and a J.D. from the University of Connecticut, School of Law. While in law school, she was appointed to the Client Advocacy Board and served as student director of the Yale Law School, Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities Clinic.

Ms. Vargas is a member of the bars in Connecticut, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.  She associates with local counsel around the country in bringing cases of special importance to individuals with disabilities and has argued in multiple federal district courts and United States Courts of Appeal.

Adrianna Del Principe

Belkowitz Law, PLLC

Adrianna represents families in special education matters arising under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, including eligibility, placement, IEP, and due process proceedings.

Adrianna Del Principe is a skilled attorney who joined Belkowitz Law, PLLC, as an Associate in 2022. Adrianna’s Cerebral Palsy has fueled her passion to protect the legal rights of persons with disabilities and to promote self-determination. She is a well-regarded speaker, and has been a keynote speaker for three events honoring the achievements of individuals with disabilities. Adrianna is empathetic toward the diversity each person’s unique needs and driven to ensure that each child with a disability receives a free appropriate public education.

Outside of the office, Adrianna has an interest in spreading awareness about various disabilities. Currently, she serves as a board member for a non-profit focusing on helping individuals with asthma and other medical conditions. She enjoys watching hockey, traveling, and spending time with her husband, puppy, family, and friends.

Presentations

Presenter, Food Allergies in the Workplace and the Law – Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities, Food Allergy Research & Education’s (FARE) Food Allergy Summit 2024, Washington, D.C., October 19, 2024

Presenter, Know Your Rights: Food Allergy and the Law, Food Allergy Research & Education’s (FARE) Food Allergy Summit 2024, Washington, D.C., October 19, 2024

Keynote Speaker, Plan|NJ Celebration of Abilities, May 25, 2022

Keynote Speaker, Dare to Dream Leadership Conference, New Jersey Dept. of Education, 2012 and 2015

Laurel Francoeur

Francoeur Law Office

Francoeur Law Office is a legal practice founded and led by Laurel Francoeur, a dedicated attorney with a passion for advocating for individuals and families affected by food allergies. The law office specializes in providing comprehensive legal services tailored to the unique needs and challenges of clients dealing with food allergy-related issues.

Located in Massachusetts, Francoeur Law Office serves clients across the country and beyond, offering a range of legal services focused on areas such as:

1. Food Allergy Law: Francoeur Law Office assists clients in navigating the legal complexities surrounding food allergies, including issues related to allergen labeling, food safety regulations, accommodation rights, discrimination, product liability, and school policies. Whether advocating for individuals with food allergies in legal disputes or providing guidance on preventive measures and risk management, the firm’s attorneys offer knowledgeable and compassionate representation.

2. Disability Rights: Recognizing that severe food allergies can qualify as disabilities under various laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Francoeur Law Office helps clients understand their rights and obligations in different contexts. The firm advocates for reasonable accommodations in schools, workplaces, public accommodations, and other settings to ensure that individuals with food allergies can fully participate and thrive.

3. Personal Injury: In cases where individuals have suffered harm due to allergic reactions caused by negligence or misconduct, Francoeur Law Office provides legal representation to pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. The firm diligently investigates each case, building strong legal arguments and advocating fiercely on behalf of clients to achieve favorable outcomes.

4. Education and Advocacy: Beyond legal representation, Francoeur Law Office is committed to raising awareness about food allergies and promoting greater understanding and inclusivity in society. The firm engages in educational initiatives, public outreach, and advocacy efforts aimed at improving safety standards, increasing access to resources, and fostering a more supportive environment for individuals with food allergies.

Francoeur Law Office distinguishes itself through its client-centered approach, personalized attention, and deep commitment to achieving justice for those affected by food allergies. With a combination of legal expertise, empathy, and advocacy, the firm empowers clients to assert their rights, navigate legal challenges, and safeguard their well-being in a world where food allergies pose significant concerns.