With a deep commitment to justice and a passion for advocacy, Marion M. Walsh, Esq. has established herself as a leading voice in education law and mental health. As a partner at Littman Krooks LLP, Ms. Walsh brings more than a decade of experience, working tirelessly to support families and individuals who need a strong legal ally. Her work goes beyond traditional legal practice—she advocates for marginalized communities, leveraging her skills to amplify the voices of those who cannot speak for themselves.
Ms. Walsh’s journey into law began with her undergraduate studies at Long Island University, where she graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science in 1986. Inspired by her father and driven by a desire to create a more just society, she pursued a Juris Doctor at New York University School of Law, graduating in 1989. Early in her career, she honed her legal skills through roles at various law firms and as an editor with Brownstone Publishers and LRP Publications. These experiences equipped her with a unique perspective on legal advocacy, which she brought to her work at Littman Krooks LLP.
Throughout her career, Ms. Walsh has faced challenges common to women in the legal profession, including sexism, sexual harassment, and discrimination. Despite these obstacles, her perseverance and commitment to her clients have remained steadfast. She credits much of her success to the assistance of her parents and her family’s encouragement, who fueled her determination to balance a demanding career with family responsibilities. Ms. Walsh’s dedication to her work is evident in her advocacy for her clients, particularly in mental health and school avoidance issues. She provides guidance to parents navigating complex and often overwhelming educational challenges.
Ms. Walsh holds certifications in youth mental health first aid and as an impartial hearing officer with the New York State Education Department. These credentials underscore her commitment to addressing mental health needs within the educational system and highlight her focus on protecting students’ rights. Her role as an impartial hearing officer allows her to influence decisions in special education, though she carefully selects cases to avoid conflicts of interest with her primary advocacy work.
Ms. Walsh plays a significant role in her community as the president of the board of directors for the National Alliance on Mental Illness Westchester, working to improve mental health awareness and support services. She also volunteers with Blue Star Mothers of the Hudson Valley NY15 and is active in the Chappaqua Friends Meeting, demonstrating her devotion to civic engagement and community service. Her involvement in these organizations reflects her broader mission to support and advocate for those in need. She was recognized as a Super Lawyer from 2020 to 2024 and received the Advocate of the Year award in 2014. Her expertise in education law and passion for justice set her apart from others in her field. She approaches each case with individualized attention, taking on challenging cases that others might avoid. Her background at prestigious institutions and extensive legal experience have equipped her to navigate complex legal landscapes and achieve meaningful outcomes for her clients.
One of the most rewarding moments in Ms. Walsh’s career occurred when she and her team fought for a student who needed an additional year in a residential placement. After winning a decision at the administrative level, the school district failed to act, prompting Ms. Walsh to seek a preliminary injunction in federal court. In a rare and exhilarating moment, the judge ruled from the bench, granting the student the extra year he needed. The judge commended the lawyering on both sides but emphasized that the law protects rights, and the student’s safety was paramount. Moments like these, Ms. Walsh notes, are once-in-a-lifetime victories that validate her team’s hard work.
Ms. Walsh will continue her current commitments, though she acknowledges the possibility of transitioning to a different role or considering retirement. For now, she intends to grow her practice, maintain her team, and devote more time to writing, with aspirations of authoring a book that reflects her extensive knowledge. She continues to impact the world through her leadership.