Bonnie Hoffman, Esq.
Director, Public Defense Reform and Training
National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, Washington, D.C.

Many individuals involved in the criminal justice system have developmental disabilities. They may unknowingly involve themselves in criminal behavior and not fully understand the consequences of their actions. Individuals with disabilities may have cognitive differences that affect their ability to process information and assist with their defense. They may have difficulties with recall, comprehension, and decision making. Representing individuals with development disabilities presents many challenges for attorneys. Our convenient 90-minute webinar features Bonnie Hoffman, Director of Public Defense Reform and Training for the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and Jessica Oppenheim, Director, Criminal Justice Advocacy Program at the ARC of New Jersey. Together they will explore the challenges facing criminal attorneys with clients with developmental disabilities, including ethics considerations for attorneys in representing this population, and suggest ways to overcome these obstacles to ensure effective representation.

1.5 diversity and inclusion credits