Attorneys and Risk Managers from Counties Across the Country Attend Legal-Based Training in Utah
The week of September 24-26, 2025, county attorneys and state and county risk management professionals from across the country gathered in Midway, Utah, to attend Class 4 of ELITE Academy for Attorneys and Risk Managers, hosted by the National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO) and the National Corrections and Detention Alliance (NCDA).
Key Features of ELITE Academy for Attorneys and Risk Managers
The ELITE Academy for Attorneys and Risk Managers provided expert-led training with a NIJO-approved, legal-based curriculum, taught by top corrections defense litigators with decades of experience representing jails, prisons, and detention centers at every level—from district courts to the U.S. Supreme Court.
This intensive program covered critical topics, including defending Section 1983 constitutional violation claims, navigating government investigations, handling facility inspections, and mitigating liability exposure.
Beyond the classroom, attendees gained invaluable opportunities to network, exchange insights, and build lasting professional relationships, strengthening their expertise in corrections litigation and defense.
NIJO and NCDA are Committed to Providing Legal-Based Training for Jail Administrators & their Staff
About NIJO
The National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO) and the National Corrections and Detention Alliance (NCDA) are dedicated to providing legal-based training that aligns with the Constitution, federal laws, and Supreme Court rulings. NIJO Executive Director Tate McCotter underscores the significance of this mission:
“Most risk pools report that jails are the biggest liability in county government. Operating a constitutionally sound facility is incredibly complex—made even more challenging by frivolous litigation, critical differences between patrol and corrections laws, and an ever-evolving legal landscape. Our goal in creating this Academy was to bridge known gaps and proactively address these challenges rather than simply reacting to lawsuits and adverse events.”
McCotter also highlights the essential partnership between attorneys, risk managers, and corrections administrators. When each role is clearly defined and valued, it fosters trust, confidence, and collaboration, leading to stronger policies, reduced liability, and better outcomes for facilities, risk pools, and legal teams alike.
The National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO) was formed as the primary resource dedicated to serve those that operate jails, detention, and correctional facilities. Recognizing the enormous liability an increasing litigation facing administrators, NIJO provides a compilation of legal-based resources and information for agencies to make facilities safer and more secure, proactively defend against frivolous litigation and protect against adverse publicity and liability.