Description

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If you are a criminal defense lawyer, it is inevitable that you are going to represent someone on the Autism Spectrum. Indeed, the Center for Disease Control estimates that one in 59 children are on the spectrum. And because Autism is a lifelong condition, these children will become adults on the spectrum.

But what is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), how will you recognize it in a client, why is it relevant to the criminal justice system, and why do people with ASD get ensnared in the criminal justice system?

The reason for compiling the expert opinions in Representing People with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Practical Guide for Criminal Defense Lawyers is meant to cover the complete anatomy of a criminal case, from the initial encounter with law enforcement, through the bond hearing, through the use of experts, through plea bargaining or dismissal, through resolution, including a sentencing hearing to prison or probation.

About the Author

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I am a criminal defense lawyer with a nationwide practice focused on representing people with mental disabilities. My experience includes: Co-chairing the Criminal Justice Advisory Panel of The Arc's National Center on Criminal Justice and Disability.Editing of Representing People with Mental Disabilities: A Practical Guide for Criminal Defense Lawyers, which is scheduled to be published by the American Bar Association in 2018.Serving on the Editorial Board of the ABA's Criminal Justice Section Magazine.Serving three terms on the board of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL), chaired its Mental Health as well as Membership Committees and am a Life Member.Traveling to Liberia in 2009 and 2014 as part of a delegation sponsored by the U.N. Commission on Drugs and Crime and NACDL to train that country's criminal defense bar.Lecturing across the U.S. as well as abroad on representing people with mental disabilities and frequently provide commentary for radio and television.Serving as a Vice President of The Spokane Symphony and the board of The Arc of Spokane and have served on the board of the Museum of Arts and Culture (The MAC).Being appointed by the Spokane City Council to the Police Ombudsman Commission.