Calendar of Events

As a person with a disability, specifically IDD and mental health disorders, attending a court appearance can be extremely overwhelming. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that people with disabilities be afforded equal access to government buildings and services, including courthouses. However, with the plethora of architectural and communication barriers that exist for this population, one may question the application of this sanction within the court system.

A staggering 84% of respondents via The G3ict Study stated they felt people with disabilities “lack access to the justice system that is equal” to that of others, while 85% believe people with disabilities “face moderate to extreme barriers” to the justice system and that they are directly impacted by said barriers (ABILITY Magazine).

As Executive Assistant Prosecutor of Atlantic County, Rick McKelvey understands and acknowledges the disparities that exist for those with disabilities in the court system and has prompted action in his county. Mr. McKelvey aids in the supervision of the Office’s legal staff as well as its Community Outreach Team and has developed the At-Risk-Initiative prosecution list, which incorporates input from police departments, court staff, service-providers, casino security and business leaders to identify repeat offenders in Superior and Municipal Courts whose cases require particular attention. Rick will be discussing various programs and initiatives that he directed and piloted including the Veterans Diversion Program and related outreach. He develops training for assistant prosecutors and local police departments and coordinates the police department liaison program.

Certificates of Attendance are available for webinar attendees!

The certificates of attendance are emailed within 5 business days.