Juvenile Justice and Health Equity: The Role of Trauma-Informed Courts for Youth with Disabilities
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Research shows that youth with disabilities face disproportionate involvement in the juvenile legal system and heightened risk of trauma. Yet trauma-informed courts, which seek to recognize trauma and prevent retraumatization in courtroom proceedings, rarely address their unique needs, leaving critical gaps that can worsen health inequities. Join legal scholars, health professionals, and people with lived experience for a discussion of actionable, trauma-informed strategies to protect and promote the health and well-being of youth with disabilities.

Speakers

  • John Bunn, Exoneree
  • Kristin Henning, Blume Professor of Law and Director, Juvenile Justice Clinic and Initiative, Georgetown Law
  • Hector Linares, Edward J. Womac Jr. Endowed Clinic Professor, Loyola University New Orleans College of Law
  • Melody Moore, Parent
  • Brian Smedley, Senior Fellow, Health Policy Division, Urban Institute
  • Amanda D. Zelechoski, Clinical Professor of Psychology and Director, Clinical Services, Veldman Family Psychology Clinic, University of Notre Dame

 

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The Urban Institute–Georgetown Law Series on Health Justice features conversations among researchers, policymakers, lawyers, health care professionals, and community advocates to develop innovative strategies for advancing health justice. Visit the project website to learn more about this joint initiative and to view past recordings.

 

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals to engage fully. Please email [email protected] if you require any accommodations or have any questions about this event.

Support for this event is provided by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. For more on Urban’s funding policies, go to urban.org/about/organizational-principles.

 

Register for this hybrid event Date & Time Thursday, April 23, 2026
12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. ET
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Address
Urban Institute 500 L'Enfant Plaza SW
Washington , DC , 20024
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Check-in and lunch at 11:30 a.m.

Urban Institute Speakers
  • Senior Fellow