Autism & Investigations:

Specialized Expertise for Neurodiverse Legal Matters

Cases involving autistic individuals require more than standard investigative skills — they demand an understanding of communication styles, sensory sensitivities, and behavioral differences that can impact how evidence is gathered, interpreted, and presented.

Without this awareness, well-meaning investigators, attorneys, or employers can unintentionally misread statements, behavior, or testimony. This can lead to critical misunderstandings and, in some cases, unjust outcomes.

At Ford Investigations, I bring over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, safety leadership, and investigative work, combined with specialized knowledge of autism’s impact in legal contexts. This unique skill set allows me to handle complex cases with accuracy, fairness, and compassion.

Why Autism Awareness Matters in Investigations:

Autistic individuals may experience the investigative and legal process differently. Common challenges include:

  • Communication differences that may affect interviews or testimony

  • Sensory sensitivities that influence comfort, focus, and responses

  • Literal interpretation of questions that can be misread by investigators or juries

  • Behavioral cues that may be wrongly perceived as evasive, uncooperative, or deceptive

Understanding and addressing these factors ensures that every investigation reflects the truth — not misinterpretations.

How I Approach Autism-Related Cases:

I adapt my investigative process to meet the needs of the individual while maintaining the highest legal and evidentiary standards:

  1. Preparation – Reviewing background information and communication preferences to avoid misunderstandings.

  2. Adaptive Interviewing – Using clear, direct language and creating sensory-considerate environments for questioning.

  3. Contextual Evidence Collection – Documenting not only the facts, but the circumstances under which they were obtained.

  4. Collaboration – Working closely with attorneys, advocates, and, when needed, autism specialists to strengthen case outcomes.

Cases I Support:

  • Criminal defense matters involving autistic witnesses, victims, or defendants

  • Personal injury cases where autism may influence testimony or communication

  • Workplace investigations involving autistic employees

  • Equivocal and unequivocal death cases requiring psychological autopsies with neurodiverse considerations

Why Choose Ford Investigations:

Few investigators combine decades of professional investigative experience with autism-specific expertise. I bridge that gap to deliver:

  • Accurate, bias-free evidence

  • Investigations conducted with respect and dignity for all parties

  • Support for attorneys, advocates, and families in achieving fair, just outcomes

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