Episode 29: Private Bar Assigned Counsel Program, State Public Defender with Kathleen Pakes and Melissa Lamb

Through the Assigned Counsel Program, the Wisconsin State Public Defender (SPD) appoints private bar attorneys to handle 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