The ICWA “Qualified Expert Witness” Testimony to Protect the Best Interests of the Indian Child
TBD
Wednesday, Aug 8 at 9:00 AM EDT
Training will be held at the Hall of Justice, 925 West Ottawa, Lansing, 48915.
Target Audience: Judges, referees, child welfare attorneys, and caseworkers for the Michigan Department of Human Services, tribes, and private agencies.
The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Qualified Expert Witness (QEW) serves an important role in any case involving an Indian Child. This training will help child welfare professionals understand the role of the QEW and will provide tips on how to present QEW testimony on issues such as the tribe’s history, how children are viewed by the tribe, cultural expectations, family history, and the Indian child’s needs. The morning session features a presentation on the role of the QEW in ICWA cases. The afternoon session offers hands-on exercises demonstrating appropriate strategies for testifying, as well as conducting both direct and cross-examination of a QEW in an ICWA case.