Colleagues recall Don Madsen, a beloved leader in public defense
Many at DPD are mourning Don Madsen, a public defense leader who loved the work and the people who were drawn to it.
Anita Khandelwal responds to working group focused on “high-barrier” individuals
DPD Director Anita Khandelwal voices concerns about the proposals put forward by a regional working group seeking to address the issues that cause people to cycle through the criminal legal system.
A new library program helps incarcerated parents stay connected to their children
Seattle Public Library started its new “Read to Me!” program after librarians realized how many parents were incarcerated in the King County jail, just a few blocks away from the downtown branch.
‘Friends for life’: Hard-fought victory builds bond between client and defense team
DPD’s defense team fought aggressively for their client, arguing that the state had charged an innocent man. They were successful; in March, he was acquitted. The team and the client continue to stay in touch, sharing a bond forged from that experience
Video provides hope, guidance to parents whose children are removed by CPS
A new video spotlights the resilience and strength of parents who were reunited with their children after CPS intervened. One mother says her message to others is “a message of hope — that no matter what your situation, you’re just as eligible as anyone else to get your child back.”
DPD interns: A summer of epic victories, hard-fought losses and many hours in the courtroom
DPD’s 20 interns wrap up a robust 10-week program, where they got a chance to learn, grow, and find their voice in the fight for justice.
Fighting for justice: Two public defenders worked for years to get their client acquitted
Emanuel Fair sat in jail for nearly nine years before he was acquitted of a murder charge in June. Ben Goldsmith and Katharine Edwards fought hard to make it happen.
The importance of knowing your rights: Three youth share their experiences with police stops
What should you do if you’re stopped by the police? Three youth in King County share an important message.
Public Defense creates new post-conviction unit
Criminal records hinder a person’s ability to get a job, secure housing, obtain benefits and more. The Department of Public Defense’s new post-conviction relief unit will help people rebuild their lives by vacating convictions and expunging records as allowed under state law.
SMC policy that kept clients in jail an extra night declared illegal
A Seattle Municipal Court (SMC) policy permitting a judge to hold certain defendants in jail more than one business day before a preliminary appearance was struck down yesterday in a significant win for criminal defendants.
Judge Maureen McKee brings a wealth of experience to the bench
Maureen McKee, a public defender for the past 16 years, is the newest King County Superior Court judge. Many expect she’ll bring a commitment to equal justice and a passion for the rights of those less fortunate to the bench.
For The Defense 