Most attorneys are aware of the complex social histories that many of their clients share, but many don't know how to effectively present those details, experiences and traumas with persuasiveness or cohesiveness.  Helen Skinner, a criminal defense lawyer with a master's degree in social work, can assist defense attorneys with preparation and strategy development for the pretrial and sentencing phase in non-capital misdemeanor, felony or civil cases.  She will complete a thorough investigation into each client's background by collecting and summarizing records, interviewing the clients and their family members, coordinating with other experts when necessary, and incorporating important themes, theories and research from the fields of social work, psychology, criminal justice, and sociology into written reports and presentations.  Ultimately, she helps demonstrate a client's humanity so prosecutors and judges can better understand why an offense occurred and what sentence or outcome is appropriate.