Advocating For More Inclusive and Comprehensive Conversations on Collateral Consequences

• In Event: Engaging the Defendant: Strategies for Effective Communication in Critical Legal Conversations

Abstract

Collateral consequences of criminal legal system involvement is an often-discussed topic as convictions or even a history of arrest can create substantial short- to lifelong impacts on an individual’s social, financial, and legal future. Despite the conversations and research on collateral consequences, less has been done to ensure defendants have a strong understanding of potential collateral consequences during pretrial decision-making. This session will present client-centric recommendations and strategies for defense attorneys to engage in more meaningful and informative advisement of potential collateral consequences. These recommendations are informed by key informant interviews with defense attorneys and individuals who have gone through the pretrial process.

Authors

• Emily Burtch, RTI International

• Beth Hustedt, RTI International

• Venita Embry, RTI International

• Karima Modjadidi, RTI International

• Lilly Yu, RTI International