Supporting Communication in Legal and Justice Settings

At Speech Community, we support individuals with communication disabilities to fully participate in legal and justice settings through the use of Communication Intermediaries (CIs).

A Communication Intermediary is a specially trained Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) who helps people understand questions and express themselves clearly during police interviews, court appearances, or other legal processes, including interactions with Family and Social Services. They do not speak on behalf of the person, but instead support accurate, accessible communication so that each individual can be understood and heard.

We are proud to have trained Communication Intermediaries on our team.
If someone you know has a communication disability and is involved in the justice system, we can connect you with a CI or provide direct support throughout the process.

 

Supporting Communication in Legal and Justice Settings

A Communication Intermediary (CI) is a Speech-Language Pathologist with specialized training in legal communication. Their role is to support individuals with communication disabilities in understanding and responding effectively during police interviews, legal meetings, court proceedings, and other justice-related contexts.

 

Who Can Benefit from a CI?

A Communication Intermediary can support individuals who have difficulty understanding or expressing themselves, including those with:

• Aphasia

• Acquired brain injuries

• Autism

• Cognitive impairments

• Developmental disabilities

• Communication challenges from other medical or neurological conditions

 

What Does a Communication Intermediary Do?

A CI provides communication support before, during, and after interactions with the justice system.

This includes:

• Assessing the individual's communication needs

• Recommending strategies and supports to facilitate understanding

• Advising legal professionals on how to use clear, accessible language

• Supporting individuals during police interviews, legal consultations, or courtroom proceedings

• Helping ensure responses are accurate, complete, and not misunderstood

 

Why Are Communication Intermediaries Important?

• They reduce communication barriers in high-stakes legal environments

• They protect the rights of individuals with communication disabilities

• They improve fairness, clarity, and accuracy within the justice system

• Their presence can help prevent miscommunication and reduce the risk of unjust outcomes

 

How Can Speech Community Help?

We can:

• Connect you with qualified Communication Intermediaries

• Support individuals and families navigating the justice system

• Provide tools, strategies, and resources to promote accessible communication

• Work collaboratively with legal professionals to ensure communication is effective and appropriate