Courthouse Dog Training

Seattle Prosecuting Attorney Ellen O’Neill-Stephens

& Celeste Walsen, Executive Director of Courthouse Dogs

Presentation on the legal issues and protocol of using an assistance dog to assist victims from forensic interview through trial

Since 2003 courthouse dogs have provided comfort to sexually abused children while they undergo forensic interviews and testify in court. The dogs also assist drug court participants in their recovery, visit juveniles in detention facilities, greet jurors and lift the spirits of courthouse staff who often conduct their business in an adversarial setting.

Courthouse dogs assist individuals with physical, psychological, or emotional trauma due to criminal conduct; these dogs are professionally trained to service dog standards by an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International.

The use of courthouse dogs can help bring about a major change in how we meet the emotional needs of all involved in the criminal justice system. The dog’s calming presence creates a more humane and efficient system that enables judges, lawyers, and staff to accomplish their work in a more positive and constructive manner.

Friday, January 28th
1:30 to 3:30 Chaves County Courthouse

Sponsored by the Chaves County CASA Program with a grant from CJAAG

More info: CASA at 575.625.0112, www.casakids.org and www.courthousedogs.com