Neurodiversity Webinar Series: Part 5 - Neurodiversity in the Criminal Justice system

This webinar will examine the difficulties faced by neurodivergent suspects and defendants in the criminal justice system, from the unfamiliar setting of the police station, to being able to effectively participate at trial, through to sentencing and the impact of custodial sentences. A range of experts will consider what steps lawyers and other professionals should be taking to ensure that neurodivergent clients are supported, are able to have a fair trial and have their rights protected at each stage of the process, as well as identifying where significant change is required to the system itself. 

Tom Wainwright, Barrister, Garden Court Chambers
Tom has a formidable reputation as a passionate defender and a powerful advocate. A fearless, down-to-earth cross-examiner with a profound understanding of criminal law and where it can be challenged and changed. He has appeared in some of the most high-profile cases of recent years including the Colston statue topplers, the Hatton Garden burglary, the ‘Stansted 15’ protestors, representing the father of Jack Letts in his trial for funding terrorism and a number of large-scale international frauds. 

Tom has developed the skill, knowledge and understanding necessary to appear on behalf of children, particularly those who have been identified as being on the autistic spectrum. He is experienced in the use of intermediaries and other adjustments which need to be made to the criminal court process so as to allow young people to fully engage and participate.

Other speakers TBC...
 

Neurodiversity in the Justice System

Our webinar series 'Neurodiversity in the Justice System', will cover a range of practice areas, recounting the experiences and examining the challenges faced by neurodivergent people involved in the justice system in England and Wales, whether as witnesses, defendants, lawyers or otherwise. These webinars will bring together experts from legal practice, academia, policy and other professionals to consider the flaws in the current system, identify instances of best practice and propound changes that could be made to improve access to justice, equality and diversity in the courts. Our previous and upcoming webinars in the series are available here.