Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court, along with other partners, launched an initiative with the aim of helping judges “better understand and communicate” with people with autism. It could be the first of its kind in the nation, reports WLVT.
“I think we may be leading the pack on this one,” said Nina Wall, director of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disability that, for some, can affect social communication and interaction; skills that are important in court proceedings.
According to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 54 children in the U.S. has been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.
“Imagine the number of children who don’t have the socioeconomic ability to obtain that diagnosis,” said Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Kevin M. Dougherty.
Justice Dougherty has played an integral role in launching this initiative in the commonwealth. He is working with the Courts, the Department of Human Services, and advocacy groups to equip judges with the education they need to better understand the behaviors of those on the spectrum and the resources available to serve them.
