The Autism Society partnered with Legal Reform for the Intellectually & Developmentally Disabled to produce an FAQ for Public Defenders on how to work with a client with Autism.
An FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin found that Americans with Autism are seven times more likely to be victims of crime due to vulnerability, twelve times more likely to become involved in the criminal legal system without criminal intent, and five times more likely to be incarcerated than the general population.
The Autism Society is a national nonprofit organization that represents the Autism community across the country. They are committed to addressing these disparities alongside partners that have professional expertise in the judicial system.
The guide covers information including signs that your client might be Autistic, what accommodations can be offered to an Autistic client, factors that might increase the likelihood of interacting with the criminal legal system, and questions attorneys should ask Autistic clients. A few misconceptions about Autism and violence and Autism and sexuality are also addressed and links to additional resources are provided.
If you need assistance finding an expert knowledgeable about Autism or other issues relevant to your case, please contact me at Sarah.R.Olson@nccourts.org.