Victim Advocacy in the Courtroom: Persuasive Practices in Domestic Violence and Child Protection Cases

“Schuster and Propen report one of the most comprehensive studies to date on victim statements in court and the work of advocates who help abused women’s and children’s voices be heard. Their work is deeply grounded in an innovative court watch program and uses extensive interviews, observations and court documents to argue that the way victims voices are heard in court many times shapes the outcomes of domestic violence and child abuse cases. Their unique view and clear writing makes this an interesting read.”–Jeffrey L. Edleson, University of Minnesota

“In Victim Advocacy in the Courtroom, Mary Lay Schuster and Amy D. Propen have harnessed cultural theory and rhetorical analysis to the gritty work of criminal and juvenile courts. This sophisticated yet accessible book provides a nuanced view of the role of victim advocates and guardians ad litem in humanizing the legal process. Both academics and practitioners will find inspiration and practical advice in this brilliant analysis of successful strategies for bridging the ideal of courtroom objectivity with the emotionality and subjectivity of real people.”–Kathleen J. Ferraro, Chair and Professor of Sociology & Social Work, Northern Arizona University

MARY LAY SCHUSTER is a professor in the Department of Writing Studies, Rhetoric, Scientific, and Technical Communication Programs, and a faculty fellow in the Law School, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. AMY D. PROPEN is an assistant professor of rhetoric and composition at York College of Pennsylvania.