Doug Passon: Breaking Down Barriers, How Understanding Autism Changes Legal Outcomes

Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World · 2025-04-11

Doug Passon shares his journey as a criminal defense lawyer and filmmaker advocating for autistic individuals in the legal system, drawing from both his professional experience and personal connection as a parent of an autistic son.

• Criminal defense lawyer who uses documentary filmmaking to humanize clients at sentencing
• Pioneered the use of video in sentencing mitigation, recognized by Wall Street Journal
• Self-described as both lawyer and filmmaker who shows humanity behind the case file
• Explains how many autistic defendants lack proper diagnosis before entering legal system
• Describes the "Three Pillars" leading to legal trouble: isolation, hyperfocus, and poor executive functioning
• Challenges misconceptions about "high-functioning" autism masking genuine impairments
• Emphasizes perspective-taking difficulties ("mind blindness") common in autism
• Reports near-zero recidivism rate among autistic defendants who receive proper support
• Advocates for better education among legal professionals about autism
• Warns parents about online vulnerabilities that can lead autistic children into legal trouble

If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to TonyMantor.com and they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.

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intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
It is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors.
Although autism is becoming more widely recognized, there is still a lack of understanding and awareness surrounding the condition.
As a result, many individuals and families affected by autism struggle to find the support and resources they need.
Why Not Me The World podcast aims to bridge that gap by providing valuable information and insights into autism, fostering empathy and understanding, and promoting acceptance and inclusion.
Nashville based Music Producer Tony Mantor explores the remarkable impact his guests make by empowering their voices in spreading awareness about autism and helping break down the barriers of understanding.
Join Mantor and his guests as they delve into the world of autism and mental health to explore topics such as diagnosis, treatment, research, and personal stories.
Together, we can create a more informed and compassionate society for individuals with autism.

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