Courtroom atmospheres, deposition testimony, and cross-
examinations have long-standing oral traditions and culture. How
does an individual who does not speak participate in such
traditions? Individuals who have severe communication
impairments of speech and/or writing may accomplish their
communication potential through the use of augmentative and
alternative communication (AAC). Communication through AAC
techniques, symbols, and strategies, however, is not familiar to
judges, attorneys, and court recorders within most courtrooms.
How do speech-language pathologists adequately prepare persons
with complex communication needs (PWCCN) to participate within a
cultural environment that is entrenched and centered on the
spoken word? What graphic symbols best represent legal concepts
such as "oath," "testimony," "swearing in," and "legal
capacity"? How do PWCCN achieve their right to access justice
when their "voice" is communicated through a communication
assistant and/or through assistive technology? How may SLPs