Message from the Chairs

Nationally recognized advocates for children participated in a hands-on training session for New Orleans juvenile public defenders sponsored by the Children’s Rights Litigation Committee of the American Bar Association Section of Litigation during a winter leadership meeting for the Section of Litigation on January 15, 2010, in New Orleans.

Even prior to the destructive impact of Hurricane Katrina on the New Orleans justice system, advocates in the juvenile justice system faced tremendous challenges. With the economic downturn and a lack of resources, those who provide needed services on a daily basis to children in delinquency need effective tools and skills training to meet the ever-growing demand for help.

Approximately 25 children’s lawyers participated in an intense training session that utilized a trial advocacy training model accompanied by lectures and small group breakouts. Attendees received an opportunity to hone their skills and learn the latest in law and practice affecting children. The faculty consisted of members of the Children’s Rights Litigation Working Group and included Angela Vigil, Baker & McKenzie, Miami; Lauren Adams, Norwich, Vermont; Alfreda Coward, One Voice Children’s Law Center, Ft. Lauderdale; Marguerite Gualtieri, Support Center for Child Advocates, Philadelphia; Tony DeMarco, Juvenile Rights Advocacy Project, Boston; Kris Henning, Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, D.C.; and Lourdes Rosado, Juvenile Law Center, Philadelphia.

The Children’s Rights Litigation Committee of the ABA Section of Litigation was created to address the vast underrepresentation of children in all aspects of the legal system. As part of our mission, we endeavor to provide high quality training to children’s lawyers. It you are interested in hosting a similar training in your area, please contact our committee director Cathy Krebs to discuss setting up a training.

Lauren Adams
Alfreda Coward
Shari Shink
Co-Chairs, Children’s Rights Litigation Committee