NAPD 2024 Women's Virtual Conference

A discussion of what we can do to be a great female leader and mentor in public defense. Many of us did not have such role models as we came up, and it is so important to do it right! This discussion will include leadership and mentorship (good v. bad, why, how to do it), the distinction of being female -- esp. in public defense, providing a safe, inclusive environment that offers true work/life balance, supporting physical and mental health needs so that our attorneys give the absolute best representation to our clients, growing a client-centered and holisitic office and balancing compassion with strength.

At this time, our office has 5 female attorneys and no male attorneys. While it is an exciting time, it comes with challenges. In dealing with judges, prosecutors, and even our clients we experience obstacles not shared by our male counterparts. This is particularly true in our rural, conservative area. In this presentation, we will discuss those challenges and how we overcome them in client meetings, in meetings with the prosecutors, and in the courtroom.