Trauma-Informed Lawyer Recertification Course

Location & Date

Location: Online, Zoom

Date TBC

Training Details

Live Online

Live Online:

Join this CPD training online at the specified time

Spaces: 20

CPD Hours: 4 hours over 2 sessions

Access to 10 hours of CPD resources is available when attending this recertification course.

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4 hours verifiable CPD, plus access to private study materials

The Trauma-Informed Lawyer Recertification Course is designed for previous delegates of the Law Society of Scotland’s Trauma-Informed Lawyer Certification Course whose certification is up for renewal. This 4-hour course, providing verifiable CPD, will result in a 2-year recertification. It will revisit and build upon the knowledge and skills necessary to practise in a trauma-informed way*.

Participants will enhance their ability to recognise the impact of trauma in those they work with and for, avoid re-traumatisation where possible, establish safe and collaborative working relationships, support recovery, and recognise the effects of vicarious trauma.

Additionally, the course will provide updates on key developments, such as the UNCRC Incorporation (Scotland) Act, practical tools for working with children and young people, and the anticipated impact of the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill.

Delegates are encouraged to come prepared to reflect on the time since completing their initial certification and to consider how they have adapted their practice in line with trauma-informed principles.

*Renewing your trauma-informed lawyer certification is essential for maintaining a fair and empathetic justice system. As the legal profession increasingly prioritises a trauma-informed approach, it is more critical than ever for lawyers to play a key role in improving the experiences of victims and witnesses while upholding fairness for the accused. This recertification ensures that you remain equipped to meet the expectations of a trauma-informed justice workforce.

What does the recertification course involve?

Session One: Reflecting on Trauma-Informed Practice

In this session, participants will reflect on their experiences since gaining their initial certification, focusing on how they have integrated trauma-informed practices into their legal work. The session will include discussions around the successes and challenges of applying these approaches, with an emphasis on peer sharing.

We will also explore the concept of vicarious trauma, a prominent risk within the legal profession. Practical approaches for recognising and mitigating this risk will be introduced, along with guidance on self-care and well-being for legal professionals.

Session Two: Legal Updates on Trauma-Informed Practice, Policy, and Bills

This session will provide key updates on legislative and policy developments since participants’ initial certification, focusing on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) Incorporation (Scotland) Act and the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill.

Participants will gain a clearer understanding of how these changes impact trauma-informed legal practice, particularly when working with vulnerable groups

New case studies will be introduced, offering practical examples of how to implement these legal updates in a trauma-sensitive manner.

The session will also cover practical tools for creating trauma-informed workplaces and explore the role of legal professionals in advocating for trauma-informed practices across the profession.

After the Recertification
Upon completion of this 4-hour course, participants will receive a 2-year recertification in trauma-informed practice.

Who is this course for?

Learning outcomes

Reflect on and share experiences: Reflect on how trauma-informed practices have been applied since the initial certification, sharing new learnings and challenges faced over the years.
Stay updated on developments: Gain insight into recent legislative updates and progression within the trauma-informed field.
Recognise areas in your practice that may pose a risk of re-traumatisation and understand the different approaches we can take to prevent it.
Identify the symptoms of vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, burnout, and traumatic stress in both yourself and your colleagues.