Through the Assigned Counsel Program, the Wisconsin State Public Defender (SPD) appoints private bar attorneys to handle overflow and conflict cases, providing attorneys with courtroom experience in criminal cases representing clients charged with misdemeanors and felonies across the state. "You can absolutely do it," said attorney Kathleen Pakes, director of the Assigned Counsel Program.

Pakes is talking about new or newer attorneys who may be interested in taking assigned cases, noting SPD provides training and other resources. Learn more about the opportunities in Episode 29 of the State Bar of Wisconsin's Bottom Up Podcast, a bonus episode with Pakes and program and policy supervisor Melissa Lamb, hosted by State Bar Communications Director Joe Forward.

This conversation explains the program and explores the essential qualities and motivations of public defenders, the unique challenges they face, and the critical role they play in upholding justice and protecting clients' rights.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to the Episode

00:55 – Guest Introductions: Melissa Lamb and Kathleen Pakes

02:20 – What Is the Assigned Counsel Program?

04:15 – History and Attorney Shortage Challenges

06:31 – How Attorneys Join and Work with SPD Assigned Counsel

08:20 – Mentorship, Training, and Community Support

11:10 – Why Assigned Counsel Is Valuable for Young Lawyers

12:40 – Case Types, Flexibility, and Attorney Lifestyles

13:37 – Parenting, Lifestyle, and Remote Work Options

14:55 – Trials, Timelines, and Misdemeanor Case Duration

15:42 – The Crisis in Rural Counties

16:45 – Remote Hearings and Travel Compensation

18:00 – Staffing Needs at SPD and Public Defender Hiring

19:20 – Student Loan Forgiveness for Assigned Counsel Work

20:22 – What Makes a Good Public Defender?

22:41 – What Keeps Attorneys at SPD?

25:03 – Caseloads and Demand for Attorneys

27:40 – Encouragement to Attorneys Considering the Program

29:06 – Benefits for a Well-Rounded Legal Career

31:29 – Flexibility, Work–Life Balance, and Rewards of the Work

32:50 – How to Get Involved

33:44 – Closing Remarks

Mark L. Thomsen's path to law is unlike any other story. In this episode of the Bottom Up podcast, host Emil Obviagele dives deep with Mark, a veteran Milwaukee-based litigator and partner at Gingras Thomsen & Wachs LLP. The episode explores Mark's unique upbringing in Nigeria, his return to America, and the cultural shocks he experienced. They discuss his journey into law, activism, and the importance of fighting for justice. The conversation delves into the role of lawyers in society, the impact of AI on the legal profession, and the significance of civic engagement in maintaining democracy. Mark emphasizes the need for creativity in law and the responsibility of lawyers to advocate for truth and justice in a changing world.

Mark is a veteran trial lawyer in the areas of personal injury, civil rights (section 1983 claims), medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, and legal malpractice claims. Raised in Nigeria until age 12, Mark dropped out of high school at age 17 and worked as a steelworker and union representative before his East Chicago plant closed down in 1984. Three years later, Mark began his legal career. Don't miss the details of Mark's inspiring and unique journey, and the path ahead.

Chapters