The Confrontation Clause impacts how and under what circumstances the testimony of witnesses for the state is admissible in criminal cases. A series of decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court, culminating in the Court's recent case, Smith v. Arizona, provide guidance about how those witnesses, especially forensic scientists, provide testimony. This webinar will provide a basic yet thorough analysis of the Confrontation Clause and recent Supreme Court decisions, with a focus on Smith v. Arizona, and how the decision impacts the practices and procedures of those working with the criminal justice system. The multi-disciplinary panel will discuss suggested practices that comply with the requirements of the Confrontation Clause and evaluate alternative means of proving an element of an offense in the absence of forensic evidence.

Live Webinar: This webinar, “The Role of Generative Artificial Intelligence in 21st Century Prosecutions,” explores how AI, particularly generative AI, can be effectively and ethically integrated into prosecutorial work. It provides an overview of AI concepts, potential pre-trial and trial applications, legal and evidentiary considerations, risks such as AI mistakes, and relevant ethical rules, and highlights the Illinois Supreme Court’s 2024 AI policy. The session emphasizes strategies for admissibility, authentication, and responsible use, aiming to equip prosecutors with practical guidance for leveraging AI while safeguarding the integrity of their cases

1.25 Live Webinar: Every aspect of a trial provides prosecutors with an opportunity to reinforce their case theory and demonstrate preparedness and organization. How you introduce and present evidence during a trial is no different. Before trial, it is important to consider which evidence should be presented and the most effective way to present evidence.

Live Webinar: Has your office considered getting a therapy dog? They aren’t just helpful resources for our victims. Research shows therapy dogs can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure and elevate mood. This webinar will focus on how therapy dogs are being used to provide emotional support to first responders by highlighting the over 300 certified teams of therapy dogs currently working nationwide. We will discuss the role a therapy dog can play in maintaining wellbeing in prosecution.

Live Webinar: Our daily interactions with others can be both a great source of support and can create the greatest stress in our lives. Do we play a role in determining whether we will count our connections as blessings or challenges? How we manage conflict and the way we engage with others can play a huge role in our personal resilience. This webinar will focus on skills to navigate tensions and to build strong connections in those interpersonal relationships that are part of our workday.