Neurodivergence in Legal Settings: Important Considerations

What does a neurodevelopmental diagnosis actually mean in a legal context? What things do we need to consider for neurodivergent clients? Do we need to change anything in our daily practice as a result?

Considerations relating to ADHD and Autism Spectrum diagnoses have become increasingly common in criminal, child protection, family law, and other civil contexts. This workshop is designed for health, legal and advocacy professionals working with neurodivergent individuals in civil and criminal legal contexts seeking to navigate the complex questions and practical implications of neurodivergence and neurodiversity in the legal context. The workshop will include case examples, a chance for attendees to discuss modified cases and will explore:

• Functional implications of ADHD and ASD in criminal, family law, and other civil contexts
• Differential diagnosis, common co-occurring conditions and overlap with trauma and social/environmental adversity
• Reliability and validity of commonly used psychometric measures with neurodivergent populations
• Assessment challenges, particularly where collateral information is limited, and their impact on forming reliable and defensible opinions in legal matters
• Considerations for single experts, including report writing and single expert roles
• Neuro-affirming and neuroinclusive practice
• Practical strategies for support and advocacy, such as in mediation, affidavits, cross-examination, and shared care contexts.

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Host or Publisher LSC Psychology