Defense of Justice - by Leanna Weissmann & Abigael Schulz (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Defense of Justice: Transformational Tales from the Trenches features 45 personal narratives from public defenders across 24 states. These powerful stories capture the challenges, triumphs, heartbreaks, and moments of profound humanity that define public defense work. From wrongful conviction cases to transformative client relationships, these essays reveal the often-unseen emotional and ethical dimensions of representing society's most vulnerable.

Review Quotes

"Straight ground truth! Defense of Justice is a powerful and gripping look into the emotional and moral toll of working within a justice system that often harms those it claims to serve. This book is needed now more than ever!"

-Alejo Rodriguez, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Center for Institutional and Social Change, Columbia Law School

"The stories in Defense of Justice are a testament to the compassion, determination, and fortitude that define public defense. These essays capture the soul of our work - standing with people whom society often overlooks and fighting zealously every day not only to ensure that the people we serve receive the due process to which they are entitled, but to challenge and change systems that have long perpetuated injustice. Every reader will walk away with a deeper understanding of why people pursue a career in public defense--and why this is a fight worth taking on."

-Twyla Carter, Attorney-in-Chief and Chief Executive Officer of The Legal Aid Society