Child Trafficking and Specialty Courts: Best Practices for Court-Involved Juveniles within Court and Community Settings
Event Date:
May 8, 2026
Event Time: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Event Type: Live In-person
Total CE Credits: 5.5
General Admission: $0 CE Cost: $0
To register, select a certificate below.
Description
Child Trafficking and Specialty Courts:
Best Practices for Court-Involved Juveniles within Court and Community Settings
Specialty (problem-solving) courts designed for child trafficking survivors are increasingly recognized as a best-practice response for court-involved youth, particularly those impacted by commercial sexual exploitation (CSE). These courts use a trauma-informed, victim-centered approach that prioritizes safety, recovery, and long-term stability, as demonstrated by the VOICES Specialty Court at Family Court of Jefferson County.
This training provides an overview of child trafficking, including relevant laws, key indicators, risk factors, and common myths, followed by a structured look at the specialty court model and evidence-based best practices. Participants will gain practical tools to better identify and support impacted youth, strengthen multidisciplinary collaboration, and apply effective, compassionate strategies within court and community settings.
Speaker & Bio
MDT Training Team
Itinerary
Training Overview
1. Child Trafficking 101
- Overview of federal and state laws related to child trafficking
- Identification of key signs and indicators of trafficking
- Examination of risk factors that increase youth vulnerability
- Debunking common myths and misconceptions about trafficking
2. Understanding the Specialty Court Model
- Overview of the VOICES Specialty Court at Family Court of Jefferson County
- Core principles of problem-solving courts for trafficked youth
- The role of trauma-informed, victim-centered practices in court settings
- Benefits and outcomes associated with specialty court approaches
3. Evidence-Based Best Practices
- Effective engagement strategies for youth impacted by CSE
- Multidisciplinary collaboration among courts, child welfare, and service providers
- Courtroom practices that reduce re-traumatization
- Individualized, strengths-based service planning
4. Tools for Professionals
- Practical guidance for judges, attorneys, probation officers, and advocates
- Screening, referral, and case management strategies
- Promoting cultural responsiveness and ethical practice
By the end of this training, participants will have a deeper understanding of child trafficking dynamics and practical tools to better serve impacted youth through coordinated, compassionate, and effective responses
