This workshop will bring together social scientists discussing new findings relevant to LGBT policy issues and attorneys discussing how they have used empirical data in both legislative work and litigation on LGBT rights. Panelists will examine anti-discrimination law, family law, and military policy. Participants will learn how best to incorporate the latest research into their advocacy.
Moderator: Brad SearsThis panel will examine state judicial elections and the federal judicial selection process as they relate to LGBT litigation. At the state level, panelists will discuss the recent extremist trend toward “voter questionnaires” for judges running for office. At the federal level, experts on the panel will discuss how appointed judges voted in crucial LGBT decisions, and how individuals and nonprofits can affect the congressional politics that will determine the future composition of the courts, and, potentially, the outcome of future LGBT litigation. The panel will also discuss tools in the courtroom for attorneys seeking to ensure unbiased treatment of their LGBT clients by judicial officers and opposing counsel.
Speakers: Hilary Meyer , Doug Lakey, Marybeth Herald , Tara Borelli