Publications list
Letter/Communication
Published 01 Mar 2024
Autism research, 17, 3, 450 - 451
The commentary“ Language is a critical mediator of autistic experiences within the criminal justice system” commendably affirms the fundamental role of language during criminal proceedings, provides subject-specific expertise, and creates awareness of needed attention to language. However, revising established justice system language requires direct engagement with justice professionals to understand the potential consequences. Changes without considering the larger context may counterintuitively endanger the rights of autistic individuals that the authors are rightly trying to protect. Much of the language referenced in the commentary, including the Miranda warnings, was standardized to protect the rights of all individuals, especially those charged with a crime, and the integrity of evidence