Wednesday – February 4, 2026
Guests
Student Self-Advocate
Senior Director for Law and Policy
Description
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.
LISTEN
Audio: Episode 150: A Self-Advocate Asks Questions About Using Supported Decision-Making
Web: soundcloud.com/adalive/episode-150
READ
- Interactive Transcript for Episode 150: A Self-Advocate Asks Questions About Using Supported Decision-Making
Web: bit.ly/adalive150-caption - Transcript Episode 150: A Self-Advocate Asks Questions About Using Supported Decision-Making (PDF file)