Sheriff Kilkenny Expands Role, Takes On Pro Bono Child Advocacy

NORRISTOWN, PA – Sheriff Sean P. Kilkenny will be expanding his legal role to help fill an increased need for pro bono child advocates, the sheriff's office announced in a press release Tuesday.

Legal aid needs for abused and neglected children in Montgomery County are expected to climb 30 percent by the end of the year. To help, Kilkenny's office said he will be taking a Continuing Legal Education course offered by the Montgomery County Advocacy Project entitled “The Art of Representing a Child in the Legal Arena.”

According to county statistics, in 2015, MCAP was able to help approximately 380 children and youth by providing pro bono child advocacy services. However, many cases go unreported.

“This expands my role as an attorney, but also enhances my duty as a sheriff to serve and protect the citizens of the county,” Kilkenny said in a statement. “I encourage all of my peers to consider taking the class to help our most vulnerable population, during their most difficult time.”

MCAP provides free legal representation to children in the county who are victims of abuse and neglect. Cases include physical abuse, sexual abuse, gross neglect, medical neglect, endangerment, dependency, and children who have been witnesses to violent crimes.

The project also ensures that the child has a safe home environment during legal proceedings.

“We know that our children are the most vulnerable when caretakers fail to keep them safe,” said MCAP Executive Director Mary C. Pugh.

According to MCAP, approximately 80 percent of all child abuse is perpetrated by parents, which highlights the need for these special services.

“It’s heartbreaking and deplorable to think that children may have to stand up in court to family, who have abused or neglected them,” Kilkenny added in his statement. “These kids deserve the support and comfort that this project can offer.”

MCAP’s CLE “The Art of Representing a Child in the Legal Arena” will be held on October 21, 2016 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Montgomery Bar Association. Members pay a fee of $50.00 and non-members pay $150. Each participant will earn seven CLE credits. For more information and to register, visit http://bit.ly/2dFUTkR.

Patch file photo.