The Intersection of Neurodiversity & The Law

Nov. 17, 2026  |  12:00 to 3:30 p.m.

Thomas J. Moyer Ohio Judicial Center  |  The Supreme Court of Ohio

65 S. Front St., Columbus, OH 43215

The Intersection of Neurodiversity & the Law will bring together legal professionals, experts and individuals with lived experience to explore how neurodiversity intersects with the legal system and the practice of law. Attendees will explore perspectives on neurodiversity, consider how neurodivergent individuals may experience the legal system and examine ways greater awareness and understanding can support the legal profession and the communities it serves.

The symposium is part of OSBF’s ongoing commitment to education and awareness around issues that affect Ohio’s legal community and the people it serves. By creating space for thoughtful discussion and shared perspectives, the program will encourage a broader understanding of neurodiversity and its relevance across the legal profession.

The symposium will precede the 2026 OSBF Annual Meeting, offering attendees an opportunity to engage with this important topic before coming together to celebrate the Foundation’s work and look ahead to the year to come.

Approved by the Supreme Court of Ohio Commission on Continuing Legal Education and the Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists Board for 3 hours of CE credit.

Welcome

Jonathan Hollingsworth, OSBF President

Panel 1: Clash on the Spectrum: The Legal System Versus Neurodivergent People

This panel explores how unaccommodated neurodivergent traits, such as lack of eye contact, flat affect, or non-linear testimony, are frequently misconstrued by judges and juries as dishonesty or fabrication. Panelists will examine practical strategies for client representation, statutory protection, and systemic court staff education.

Panel 2: Neurodiversity in Law School and Legal Practice

In this candid session, neurodivergent attorneys share their lived experience navigating legal education, entering the profession, and managing a practice. Panelists will unpack the systemic frictions neurodivergent attorneys face—such as communication overload, open-office sensory challenges, and rigid 8-to-5 expectations—while offering actionable employer best practices for creating accessible, high-performing legal workplaces.

Register Here