Breakout 9 | Cultural compass: Enhancing GAL effectiveness through cultural competency (qualifies for 1.0 ethics, 1.0 bias, and 1.0 GAL hours)

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This presentation explores the critical role of cultural competency for Guardians ad Litem (GALs) in the legal system. As advocates for children and vulnerable adults, GALs must navigate diverse cultural landscapes to ensure fair representation and optimal outcomes for their clients. This session aims to equip GALs with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide culturally sensitive and effective advocacy in an increasingly diverse legal landscape.

Takeaways:

• Understanding cultural competency in the context of GAL work.
• Recognizing and addressing implicit biases.
• Effective cross-cultural communication and advocacy strategies.

Speaker: Danielle Dodd, University of Missouri, Columbia

Opinions and positions stated by presenters of MoBarCLE programs are those of the presenters and not necessarily those of The Missouri Bar. This program is intended as information for lawyers in Missouri, in conjunction with other research they deem necessary, in the exercise of their independent judgment.