Coming to the courthouse is stressful enough without having to worry whether you will be taken seriously or treated with dignity – as a victim or witness or defendant. Recognizing the challenges faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community, District Attorney Creuzot appointed ADA Phillip Clark to serve as the liaison between the community and the DA’s Office. The Community Liaison leads a Task Force of 25 DA staff drawn from all areas and roles within the office. Together, they are working to make sure a person’s LGBTQ+ status does not diminish their experience in the criminal justice system. They are conducting research and presenting trainings to bring ADAs, advocates, and investigators up to speed on LGBTQ+ cultural competency and legal issues.
The Liaison and Task Force do not seek to influence prosecutors on individual cases; rather, they work to inform prosecutors by illuminating dynamics in a given case and facilitating productive communications. Integrity of the case is paramount.
The LGBTQ+ Community Liaison and Task Force are a resource for both the DA’s Office and the community at large. Requests, ideas, questions, comments, coordination, and resources are all welcome and appreciated… please email ADA Phillip Clark, LGBTQ+ Community Liaison, at LGBTQ-DA@dallascounty.org.
