Compassion Over Contempt: How a Virginia Courtroom Incident Highlights the Need for Trauma-Informed Legal Practices
Richmond, VA – In a Virginia courthouse back in December 2016, a seemingly ordinary legal proceeding took a turn that would highlight a profound issue within the legal profession: the need for sensitivity and support surrounding mental health and substance abuse. Charles, a veteran criminal defense attorney with more than 30 years of experience, arrived early for a preliminary hearing, prepared to finalize a plea agreement for an indigent client charged with minor offenses. Yet, instead of proceeding as planned, the day spiraled into one of public judgment and personal despair. As the hearing commenced, … Read more