Course Description: This course is a two-part series starting with an overview of implicit bias--what it is, where it comes from and how we can interrupt the effect our implicit biases have on our behavior and decision-making. Part two focuses on how implicit bias can affect our interactions with clients including the assumption and judgements we make about clients and our decisions about how much time and resources to devote to clients' cases.
Course Instructor: Margaret Johnson is dedicated to justice for all. Margaret is the Racial Disparity Practice Coordinator for the Wisconsin Public Defender's Office (SPD). Margaret assesses the presence of racial disparity in criminal justice systems and puts together the plan for addressing the disparity. Margaret has presented around the country on issues related to racial justice and equity. Margaret has been published in the Wisconsin State Bar Association's Juvenile Law Handbook. She has been honored as a Top Up-And-Coming WI Attorney in Super Lawyers and Milwaukee Magazine and as a member of the Rubin Society of the SPD for her work with children. Margaret is currently in dissertator status working towards a PhD in Urban Studies from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. At Marquette University, Margaret completed her Jurist Doctor and Master of Arts in Public Service with an Administration of Justice Specialization. She is currently a staff lawyer in the Milwaukee Trial Office. Prior to that, she was Attorney Manager for the Racine Trial Office, where she was also a member of the Second Judicial District's Veterans Court. Margaret enjoys coaching the Marquette University Undergraduate Mock Trial Team and is a Master Rated Figure Skating coach.