I'm still learning how to navigate this 2e world.
This group has given me some great feedback so far, and I'm wondering if you can help me again.

Which is "better," in your opinion...a 504, or an IEP?

The speech therapist at my 12-year-old son's elementary school told me we should avoid a 504 if possible, because the IEP would get more attention, whereas a 504 is easier for schools to ignore (and the IEP has more flexibility for accommodations). Since I have little to no experience with how all of this works, I've been taking her advice and steering my GT/dysgraphic/APD son away from the 504, but it's been brought up several times by his middle school staff.

Am I avoiding this unnecessarily and/or harmfully?

Thanks for your quick and thorough reply.
It sounds like you and your family have really been put through the paces.
I never knew how very complicated all of this could become, but I'm learning rapidly!
We have an IEP (currently being re-examined & re-developed), and from what I'm reading, that's the best route for now. I'll definitely look into the district's history, too.

It's a shame that families have to go through all of this to get their children's needs met. Especially since many families, like my own, can't afford legal action if things become even more hairy.