Course Description
Family law attorneys increasingly encounter custody disputes involving children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities, yet many lack practical guidance for navigating these cases effectively. This CLE provides clear, actionable strategies for evaluating evidence, understanding clinical recommendations, and advocating in high-conflict matters where developmental needs are central.
Drawing on 25+ years of clinical experience and expert witness work, Jamie Bassos, M.S., BCBA, LBA, demystifies autism diagnoses, decodes clinical jargon, and addresses common misconceptions that frequently surface in custody litigation. Attorneys will leave equipped to ask better questions, assess expert opinions, and make stronger, more defensible arguments in cases involving developmental disabilities.
Principles
- Identify how autism and other developmental disabilities may impact custody and parenting plan considerations
- Recognize common misconceptions that can weaken legal arguments involving developmental disabilities
- Effectively collaborate with and question behavioral experts
- Apply practical strategies to advocate for child-centered, defensible outcomes in court
Syllabus
- Autism and Functional Impact in Custody Cases: What attorneys actually need to know about diagnoses, severity levels, and real-world functioning (not labels)
- Common Misconceptions That Undermine Cases: Parenting capacity, therapy recommendations, school services, and “best interests” myths that show up in court
- Using Behavioral Experts Strategically: When to retain an expert, what questions matter, and how to assess credibility and scope
- Practical Litigation Strategies: Evidence gathering, deposition prep, and courtroom presentation when autism is central
- Ethical and Child-Centered Considerations: Balancing parental rights, child welfare, and therapeutic recommendations
