Children in vulnerable situations make a perfect target for predators. This session will discuss the issues faced by multi-disciplinary teams investigating and prosecuting difficult cases focusing on victims in custody and victims in state care. Topics discussed will include overcoming barriers with victims struggling with problematic behaviors, behavioral issues and other manifestations of adverse childhood experiences. The discussion will also include the use of pre-trial motions to limit questioning of the child's background, prior abuse and mental health history and provide strategies to present a case that overcomes jury bias.
Learning Objectives:
Examine barriers to prosecution with victims struggling with problematic behaviors, behavioral issues and other manifestations of adverse childhood experiences.
Discuss the use of pre-trial motions to limit questioning of the child's background, prior abuse, criminal adjudications, and mental health history.
Provide strategies to present a case that overcomes jury bias.
