Criminal Law: Ethics & Managing Client Mental Illness and Intellectual Disability
In this intensive and in-depth program you have an opportunity to develop skills to better handle individuals who have experienced a mental health issue, severe trauma or when you are confronted with a difficult ethical decision about what you ought to do. With the spectrum of clients extending, and an aging population these types of tough situations will arise more frequently which is why it is important consider how you and your practice will respond.
Description
Attend and earn 3 CPD Hours
Chair/Facilitator: Maree Cross, Barrister, Lorne Street Chambers
1.15pm to 1.20pm: Opening comments by the Chair/Facilitator
1.20pm to 2.20pm: Ethics and Professional Responsibility for Criminal Lawyers
Too many criminal lawyers are unaware of various ethics rules and what to do in certain circumstances. They make decisions which should be avoided. Responsibilities towards clients, fellow practitioners and to prosecutors/crowns and the courts are lost and overlooked by many lawyers. Consider these issues and better understand the ethics and responsibilities that you must observe as a criminal lawyer.
Presented by David PH Jones QC, Lorne Street Chambers
1.25pm to 3.25pm: Dementia and Crime
With an ageing population, the incidence of dementia concerns have increased. This has been mirrored in the criminal justice system. Increasingly, lawyers are expected to have greater awareness and appreciation of a wide range of neurodegenerative conditions, which may have implications for a defendant’s fitness to stand trial, culpability and sentencing. The over 65 years age group is now the largest growing sector in the custodial setting, suggesting dementia is also highly relevant post-sentencing.
- Examine the different types of dementia and accompanying features and whether an individual’s dementia is likely related to their offending
- Explore how these inmates are managed in custodial settings and their risks and vulnerabilities
Presented by Michael Bott, Barrister, Heretaunga Law
3.30pm to 4.30pm: Developing a Trauma Informed Practice
You frequently work with clients who have high rates of adverse childhood experiences. You can transform the way you work with many of your clients by understanding the biological pathway from toxic stress in childhood to poor physical and mental health outcomes later in life. Be introduced to some of the neuroscience on this topic. Take a journey through real practice examples to illustrate how you can apply this knowledge for better outcomes for your clients and a reduced risk of burnout among solicitors and support staff.
Presented by Kirsty Dempster-Rivett, Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Learning Objectives
- Gain Professional Skills for dealing with a situation involving dementia and crime
- Develop insight on how to be a trauma informed practice
- Receive expert guidance on how to approach and issue in Ethics & Professional Responsibility