Prosecuting cases of child sexual assault can be complex. This training will provide insight into the dynamics of these cases, which result in more difficult prosecutions. Attendees will learn to put evidence together in a way that propels the case forward and implement strategies for preparing child witnesses. Feeling attacked? Explore common defense tactics and how to combat defense attacks.

        Learn the dynamics in child sexual abuse cases and the impact this can have on the investigation.

       Learn what types of evidence can be used to corroborate the child’s testimony at trial. 

       Learn hearsay exceptions to allow admissions of additional corroborative testimony at trial.

       Learn how to address common defense tactics and defense experts in court.

Colleen Brazil is the Senior Director of Children’s Services at Project Harmony.  She was a forensic interviewer at Child’s Voice in Sioux Falls, SD from its inception in 1998 until August 2014 when she moved to Omaha. She has interviewed over 8,000 children regarding allegations of abuse or neglect. She has trained child protection workers, law enforcement officers and other multi-disciplinary team members on a regional and national level.  She has served as an expert witness in Nebraska, South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota courts regarding cases of child abuse. Colleen can be reached via email at cbrazil@projectharmony.com. 

Demi Herman is a career prosecutor currently assigned as a child abuse specialist with the Nebraska Department of Justice.  She prosecutes cases involving children who have suffered sexual assault and physical abuse.  Throughout her career, Demi has prosecuted the full range of felony offenses with particular interest in helping child victims and sexual assault survivors. Demi graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota with a B.A. in Criminal Justice and Sociology.  She obtained her J.D. from William Mitchel College of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she was a student prosecutor.  She is licensed to practice law in Arizona and Nebraska.  Since law school, Demi has proudly worked for the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, Phoenix, Arizona, in General Trial and Gang/Repeat Offender Divisions.  After moving with her family to Nebraska, she has worked for the Platte County Attorney’s Office and Saunders County Attorney’s Office as Chief Deputy, as well as the Douglas County Attorney’s Office as CVSA (Child Victim/Sexual Assault) Team Lead. Demi works hard to ensure all victims actively participate in the court process and are able to testify against their offender in a manner that will minimize further trauma and allow the survivor to regain their voice. Demi can be reached via email at demi.herman@nebraska.gov. 

The webinar recording can be accessed at the top of the page. Additional materials, such as presentation slides, are also available for download.

Complete the evaluation form within 30 days of completing the training in order to receive your certificate. Any questions or concerns about Guardify webinars can be directed to events@guardify.com.

This course has been pre-approved for continuing legal education in the following states:

IA  |  7/18/24-7/17/25 |  1.5 CLE Hours | 411097

LA | 7/18/24-7/18/25 | 1.5  Credits | Live 4367240718 & On Demand 4367240719

OR | 7/18/24-7/18/27 | 1.5 General Credits | 112881

NE | 7/18/24-7/18/26 | 1.5 Credit Hours | Live 267667 & On Demand 267940

TX | 7/18/24-6/30/25 | 1.5 Credit Hours | Live 174243222 & On Demand 174248310

TN | 7/18/24-7/17/25 | 1.5 General Hours

WA | 7/18/24-7/17/29 | 1.5 Law & Legal | Live 2023465 & On Demand 2023615

WV | 1.5 Attendance Credits | Live 95597 & On Demand 95596

Attendees licensed in self-accredit and self-report states should follow rules set out by their respective state bar associations or other accrediting bodies.

Questions about continuing education can be directed to Brittany Ford at brittany.f@guardify.com.

Interested in more training provided by Guardify? Visit our On Demand Library to access all webinar offerings. 

Don't forget to subscribe to Guardify's Real Evidence Podcast. Delve into thought-provoking conversations on restorative justice, uncovering how innovation and collaboration can help communities work together for a better, more equitable future. Tune in for expert perspectives, compelling stories and the latest in digital evidence management.