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This 90-minute webinar will address the legal standards governing the Sixth Amendment Right to Counsel, as well as provide a frank discussion on the real-world application of these rights. The webinar will begin with an overview of the law, including when the right to counsel applies, what it entails, and when it ends. Following the overview there will be a panel discussion on the real world application of these legal principles, including what it means to have a zealous advocate, the complexities for the community in raising concerns regarding appointed counsel, and challenges in navigating court processes that may undermine the right to counsel. 

The legal overview will be provided by University of Central Florida Professor Alisa Smith. Among her areas of expertise, Professor Smith has done extensive research regarding misdemeanor courts and waivers of counsel. Her works include Three Minute Justice: Haste and Waste in Florida’s Misdemeanor Courts and Rush to Judgement: How South Carolina’s Summary Courts Fail to Protect Constitutional Rights.

Joining Professor Smith for the panel discussion are Melanie Foote, Manager of the Education & Strategic Planning Branch of the Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy and Damon Venable, social justice advocate & writer. The panel will be moderated by attorney Lonnie Randolph.

The program is FREE and open to all, but registration is required.  

DETAILS

• WHEN: Thursday, October 17th, 2024 (6:00-7:30pm ET / 3:00-4:30pm PT)
• WHERE: Zoom (After registering, the webinar link will be sent in a confirmation email.)
• COST: Free

Speakers:

• Dr. Alisa Smith, Professor of Legal Studies, University of Central Florida
• Melanie Foote, Education & Strategic Planning Branch Manager, Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy
• Damon Venable, Social Justice Advocate & Writer
• Lonnie Randolph, Managing Partner, Randolph & Randolph, P.C.

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