Trauma in the Courtroom

JSI Associate Judge Gayle Williams-Byers will discuss the impact of trauma in the courtroom. Specifically, she will include Adverse Childhood Event information, basic neurobiology on the impact of trauma on the developing brain, and its long-term impact. The session will also include practical suggestions for all justice professionals to become trauma informed.

As a result of this program, you will:

• Learn why judges and other justice professionals need to be cognizant of trauma as it relates to court cases;
• Understand that trauma seems to be the overwhelming negative factor affecting many court users;
• Anticipate concerns from participants who have experienced child abuse and neglect, and;
• Avoid participants leaving the courtroom with “Jurigenic Harm”.