Speakers: Crystal Abreu, Esq. 

This seminar will inform attorneys of all backgrounds and all practice areas about the language barriers and cultural differences seen with Latino clients. Very few attorneys speak Spanish in Rhode Island and those who do not know the language or culture tend to misrepresent the intentions of clients/the life of the clients in a court hearing. By understanding the culture and the differences, attorneys can better represent their clients and protect them from unwarranted DCYF involvement or attacks from opposing counsel due to behavior that is considered normal for the Latino culture. Additionally, with an understanding of the differences in the Spanish dialect for all Latino cultures (Caribbean, Central American, and South American), attorneys and interpreters can avoid using the wrong terms and can improve communication between the client and the attorney.