Date/Time: 9/24/26, 1:30 – 3 PM

Location: TBA

In-Person Only

Topic: This presentation examines how cultural competence and implicit bias shape legal advocacy, guiding attorneys to better understand the cultural, social, and psychological factors that influence client behavior and case outcomes. Through exploration of cultural norms, communication styles, power dynamics, and privilege, participants learn how unconscious biases affect decision making and client relationships. The session emphasizes cultural humility, client centered practice, and effective cross cultural communication, using real world case scenarios to illustrate how systemic inequality, trauma, identity, and cultural expectations impact client engagement. Attorneys leave with practical tools to build trust, reduce bias, and strengthen representation for diverse clients.

Speaker: Misty Williams

Misty Williams is a Mitigation Assistance Specialist with the Holistic Division of the Harris County Public Defender’s Office and a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Prior to joining HCPDO, Misty worked as a social worker for Harris County’s Office of Managed Assigned Council. She has experience in trauma-informed advocacy, mental health, and criminal defense mitigation. She earned her Master of Social Work from Howard University and has worked across therapeutic, community, and criminal legal settings supporting individuals impacted by trauma, substance use, systemic inequities, and mental health challenges. Her work centers on developing client-centered mitigation narratives that humanize clients and strengthen advocacy through culturally responsive, holistic representation.