Dr. Jacqueline Pei and Dr. Melissa Tremblay are leading the University of Alberta arm of the BC Law Project. The project is geared towards improving community based practices specific to meeting the needs of individuals with FASD. The goal of the project is the redevelopment and implementation of an identification, screening, and case management toolkit designed to improve recognition of individuals with FASD in legal contexts, using an implementation science framework. The overall aim of the project is to improve not only identification, but also to enhance the services and supports received by individuals with FASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders in the legal system, and ultimately, improve their trajectories and outcomes.

This project aims to identify current research gaps and areas for future study related to criminal justice involvement among individuals with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). We will explore the empirical evidence that has been published within the last five years and provide an engaging overview of the research. Our goal is to contribute to a better understanding of how to reduce criminal justice involvement among people with PAE and FASD, and improve their access to programs and support. This study will help identify new evidence related to the topic and provide a structure to analyze the information. 

AVIRT is an innovative partnership model between Children Services, Alberta Health Services, and Edmonton Police Services aimed at responding to families with infants under the age of three months who are being investigated for child protection concerns under the Child, Youth, and Family Enhancement Act. After 10 years of service delivery, it is crucial to evaluate the team's processes and procedures to improve and expand the partnership, and identify internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as external opportunities and threats that may impact service delivery. This evaluation is critical to the continued success and growth of AVIRT and its contribution to the field of child protection. By improving the partnership and addressing any weaknesses, AVIRT can better support vulnerable families and infants and ultimately contribute to the well-being of children and families in the community.