Episode 150: A Self-Advocate Asks Questions About Using Supported Decision-Making
From ADALive! by Southeast ADA Center
February 3, 2026 · 38 min
About this episode
This episode features a conversation about Supported Decision-Making between a self-advocate and a legal expert.
Get answers to questions about Supported Decision-Making (SDM) in this conversation between Leo True Frost, a wheelchair user with cerebral palsy who uses a communication device to speak, and Jonathan Martinis, Senior Director for Law and Policy at the Burton Blatt Institute. Martinis explains that SDM involves individuals seeking advice and support to make decisions, similar to how non-disabled individuals do. He highlights the Jenny Hatch case, which brought SDM into public consciousness and led to many states recognizing SDM. Martinis emphasizes the importance of planning ahead, identifying supporters, and formalizing agreements. He also discusses the balance between SDM and guardianship, advocacy for legal recognition, and the role of self-advocates in promoting their rights.
People in this episode
Guest: Leo True Frost
Topics covered
- Supported Decision-Making
- self-advocacy
- guardianship
- legal recognition
- planning ahead
Keywords
- Supported Decision-Making
- self-advocate
- cerebral palsy
- communication device
- legal recognition
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Burton Blatt Institute
Books & works: Jenny Hatch case
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