Neurodivergence and Criminal Justice

This book offers an original perspective on neurodivergence in the context of criminal justice. Neurodivergence collectively describes a range of neuro-developmental differences, and which primarily affect cognitive processes such as social communication, learning and memory, and sensory processing. The way in which criminal justice systems, processes and institutions engage with neurodivergent individuals is an emerging priority for policy makers, legal and clinical practitioners, and academics. The collection draws together a range of insights from multiple jurisdictions, spanning common and civil law traditions in various regions of the world. Edited by an international team of interdisciplinary experts in the field, the volume showcases a variety of scholarly perspectives in a range of legal contexts, shedding light on existing challenges for neurodivergent individuals, including suspects, defendants and victims of crime, as well as best practice in ensuring fair and effective justice processes. The book ultimately aims to identify common experiences, challenges and changes in this vital area which can be shared and built on by the next generation of international scholars and practitioners.