Master trauma-informed investigative strategies to uncover critical evidence, build robust civil claims, and maximize recovery for survivors.
In high-stakes, emotionally charged cases involving sexual abuse and trafficking, the investigative strategy you choose can determine the trajectory of your litigation. This session delves into the critical decisions attorneys must make when selecting investigative support—evaluating when to rely on in-house personnel versus when to engage external professionals.
Attendees will gain insights into balancing discretion, cost, and effectiveness while maintaining sensitivity to trauma-informed approaches. The program will also highlight how early investigative efforts can clarify liability, corroborate survivor accounts, and inform case valuation. Tailored for attorneys handling complex, sensitive litigation, this CLE equips you with practical tools to build a strong case from the outset.
Beyond legal theory, this course delves into the practical mechanics of investigation. From locating hard-to-find witnesses and former employees to identifying corporate entities and insurance policies that may hold liability, you will gain a roadmap for the discovery phase. The instructors also discuss the importance of early case assessment to determine credibility and the innovative use of technology in modern investigations.
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
This course is essential for attorneys, paralegals, and investigators who wish to navigate the complexities of abuse litigation with competence, compassion, and strategic precision.
The NYS Academy of Trial Lawyers is the largest statewide trial bar in the US with 5,700+ lawyer and judge members. We are committed to protecting, preserving and enhancing the civil justice system. Our highly acclaimed CLE programming features extraordinary presenters covering the most timely and important topics.
President of Satellite Investigations
Matthew is the President of Satellite Investigations based in New York, NY. He has been a Licensed Private Investigator since 2001 and was named PI Magazine's Investigator of the Year in 2021. Matthew is a member of NALI, NCISS (Board), WAD (Board), Intellenet, SPI, and various state associations, as well as the Chairman of ALDONYS. He is also the host of the PI-Perspectives podcast and the creator of Investigators-toolbox.com.
Partner at AWK Survivor Advocate Attorneys, PLLC
Hillary is a Partner at AWK Survivor Advocate Attorneys based in White Plains, NY. She earned a BS in Criminal Justice from Pace University and her JD from Pace University College of Law in 2013. She's been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star from 2018–2023 and a Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Attorney by The National Trial Lawyers. She currently sits on the Board of Directors for CHILD USA, the Columbian Lawyers Association of Westchester, and the Academy.
