Attorney Amanda Simmons of Ambika Law Speaks During the Opening Remarks of the National Association of Women Judges 45th Annual Conference

Amanda’s efforts at reform within youth treatment centers were recognized and acknowledged by the National Association of Women Judges at the 2023 Annual Conference in Indianapolis, IN.  After seeing Amanda speak at the American Bar Association’s Annual Meeting in support of Resolution 605, The Honourable Judge Toni Clarke, President of NAWJ, personally invited Amanda to attend and speak about the issue during the opening remarks of the conference.  

Amanda provided moving remarks about her experiences with child trafficking in youth treatment centers and the urgent need to educate the judiciary on the risks of placing youth within these facilities.  Following the conference, Amanda presented to the NAWJ’s Human Trafficking Committee and spoke with the committee about her experiences.  She is looking forward to contributing to a growing judicial understanding of the issues and challenges of residential placement options.  

About NAWJ

The National Association of Women Judges (NAWJ) is a leading organization dedicated to promoting the advancement of women judges and advocating for a diverse, fair, and accessible judiciary. Through education, outreach, and support, NAWJ works to ensure equal justice and the representation of women at all levels of the judiciary.

Professional Background and Leadership

Amanda Simmons is a lived experience advocate, bringing personal insights and empathy to her practice. She is also a 2024-2025 American Bar Association Fellow, concentrating on institutional child abuse. Amanda has presented at numerous prestigious conferences, including the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, the National Association of Women Judges, and the National Association of Counsel for Children. She frequently publishes on legal topics related to the troubled teen industry, contributing valuable knowledge and advocacy to the field.

About Institutional Child Abuse

Institutional child abuse within the troubled teen industry raises significant legal issues due to inadequate regulation and oversight of residential treatment centers. These facilities often operate with minimal state and federal scrutiny, allowing abusive practices like physical restraints and isolation to go unchecked. Legal challenges include enforcing existing protections, establishing stricter regulatory frameworks, and ensuring accountability for abuse