Autism, Criminal Defence and Access to Justice

Roxanna Dehaghani is a Reader in Law at Cardiff University, UK.Tom Smith is Associate Professor in Law at the University of the West of England, Bristol, UK.

• Foreword by Penny Cooper; 1: Autism and Effective Criminal Defence; 2: Autistic Suspects and Defendants in the Criminal Process; 3: Criminal Defence Lawyers, Effectiveness and Autism; 4: Mapping the Paths of Autism Knowledge and Awareness; 5: (Abstract) Knowledge and Understanding of Autism; 6: Adjustments in Lawyer-Client Interactions; 7: Autistic Suspects in Police Custody; 8: Autistic Defendants at Court; 9: The Future of Criminal Defence for Autistic Suspects and Defendants.

'This book provides an important contribution to the literature around criminal defence by bringing in the experiences of Autistic suspects and defendants. Dehaghani and Smith highlight the barriers Autistic suspects and defendants face, and make practical and conceptual suggestions for change. This is a much-needed book that will raise awareness and improve understanding of Autistic suspects and defendants.'Daniel Newman, Professor in Law, Cardiff School of Law and Politics, Cardiff University, UK'This book makes a vital contribution to our understanding of the intersection of autism and criminal justice, setting a new standard for inclusive, compassionate legal practice. It delivers fresh perspectives on autism-related barriers and rigorous empirical insights into how defence lawyers understand and respond to the needs of autistic suspects and defendants. By mapping autism-specific challenges within legal processes and providing actionable guidance (with practical strategies to enhance fairness and reduce trauma), it advances both professional practice and scholarly discourse. Academics, legal professionals, and advocates alike will find this book an invaluable resource for promoting access to justice and fostering informed, empathetic representation.'Katie Maras, Reader in Psychology, Centre for Applied Autism Research, University of Bath, UK