DoctorMarozane Spamers

I was invited to presented a professional development webinar to Public Defence Service - New Zealand lawyers on 'Lawyer mental health and wellbeing'. Legal professionals working in the criminal justice system face unique and often intense emotional demands, particularly when representing vulnerable and traumatised clients. Drawing on recent research, this session discussed: 1. the prevalence of mental disorders and distress in the criminal justice system, including in victims and offenders of crime and criminal justice professionals 2. the occupational and organisational stressors inherent in criminal law practice and the systemic pressures that contribute to psychological distress, including: a. exposure to traumatic material and vicarious trauma, b. potential adverse mental health impacts on lawyers, and c. the broader systemic consequences of poor mental health and wellbeing management for professional effectiveness and justice outcomes. 3. evidence-based strategies for protecting wellbeing, sustaining resilience, and fostering trauma-informed legal practice. 4. practical tools and insights to navigate the landscape of criminal law work while maintaining personal and professional integrity.

I was invited to present a workshop on 'Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System in New Zealand' to restorative justice facilitators to explore what "taking responsibility" in a restorative justice context looks like when mental health concerns may impact criminal liability.