Autism, Criminal Defence and Access to Justice

Author: Roxanna Dehaghani; Thomas Smith
Publisher: Routledge
ISBN: 9781041085287
Published In: June 2026
Format: Hardback
Jurisdiction: U.K. ? Disclaimer:
Countri(es) stated herein are used as reference only

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Interest in neurodivergence, particularly autism, and its impact on suspects and defendants in the criminal process has grown significantly in recent years, domestically and globally. A significant gap nevertheless remains in relation to (socio)-legal perspectives on the role and effectiveness of criminal defence lawyers for the Autistic accused. Drawing from diverse literature and original empirical insights, this book provides a timely and original contribution to the growing field by examining the theoretical, ethical, and practical dimensions of the relationship between criminal defence lawyers in England and Wales and their Autistic clients. It examines and critiques the effectiveness of criminal defence for the Autistic accused, articulating how lawyers have learnt about and conceptualise autism, the strategies that they employ when representing Autistic clients, and the practical limitations affecting their effectiveness. The book then explores the practical and conceptual possibilities that could secure an effective criminal defence for Autistic suspects and defendants, including through the philosophy of autism-centred criminal defence.

This work will be essential reading for those researching and studying in the areas of (socio)-legal studies, disability and neurodivergence studies, criminal justice, criminology, and psychology. It should also be of interest to criminal justice and legal professionals who engage with Autistic and other neurodivergent people through their work.

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