Lawyer-Guardian Ad Litem (LGAL) "Boot Camp"

Lawyer-Guardian Ad Litem (LGAL) "Boot Camp"

Hosts: State Court Administrative Office - Child Welfare Services and Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan

Date: Friday, January 12, 2018

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Venue: Michigan Hall of Justice

Location: Lansing, Michigan

Street Address: 925 W. Ottawa, Lansing, MI 48915

Target Audience:
This training is intended for attorneys representing children in child protective proceedings. Other child welfare legal professionals may benefit as well.

Training Description:
In a child welfare case, the lawyer-guardian ad litem (LGAL) has the critical role of representing the child’s best interests. This training is designed as an introduction for attorneys who are new to the LGAL role, as well as a refresher for experienced LGALs. Topics will include the statutory responsibilities of an LGAL, techniques for incorporating recent caselaw into practice, child development principles, and information about adverse childhood experiences. Interviewing tips and techniques will also be provided pursuant to the Forensic Interview Protocol.

Speakers:

• Rubina S. Mustafa, Lawyer-Guardian Ad Litem, Michigan Children’s Law Center

• Jennifer A. Pilette, Adjunct Professor of Law, University of Detroit Mercy School of Law and Wayne State University Law School, and Juvenile Referee (ret.), Wayne County Third Circuit Court

• Julie A. Knop, Director, Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan

• Amanda Dubey-Zerka, LMSW, Director of Continuing Education, Clinical Instructor, Michigan State University School of Social Work

• James Novell, Program Manager, Foster Care Review Board, State Court Administrative Office

Is registration required?
Yes. Registration is required and on-site registration is not available. Please do not register to attend this training unless you have scheduling flexibility and have received the necessary authorization to attend. Excessive nonattendance without prior cancellation will result in limited access to future CWS training events.

Who should I contact with questions? For general assistance, please contact Kate McPherson, SCAO-CWS Administrative Assistant, at McphersonK@courts.mi.gov or 517-373-5322. For questions regarding the training content, please contact Elizabeth Henderson, SCAO-CWS Court Analyst, at HendersonE@courts.mi.gov or 517-373­-2621.

Can I update my registration information?
Yes. You can update your information (name, email, answers, etc.). Click on the following link for a step by step tutorial: http://help.eventbrite.com/customer/en_us/portal/articles/430100-how-to-update-your-ticket-registration-information

Do I have to print and bring my registration confirmation to the event?
No. There will be a sign in sheet at the SCAO-CWS registration desk outside of the meeting room.

The name on the registration doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?
No. Please use the attendee's name only.

When do I receive a Certificate of Attendance?
All attendees will receive a Certificate of Attendance via email within one week of the training. The certificates are for proof of attendance and tracking of participation hours.

Does this training offer continued education units for licensed social workers?
No. This course does not offer Social Work CE units.

What attire do you recommend?
Room temperature can fluctuate throughout the day. Please plan accordingly and dress in layers.

Is food provided?
Lunch will be generously provided to participants within State of Michigan meal rates. Due to grant restrictions, we are unable to provide breakfast or snacks. Additional meals and snacks are the responsibility of the participant. If you require a vegetarian meal or have severe food allergies, please contact Kate McPherson at McphersonK@courts.mi.gov or 517-373-5322.

What meeting room will the training be in?
The training will be held in the Conference Center on the first floor of the Michigan Hall of Justice.