What Type of Person Thrives in Public Defense, According to a Los Angeles County Alternate Public Defender
Success in public defense requires unwavering determination and the ability to "keep coming back with logic," even when facing constant rejection. Adaptability is key, as courtroom dynamics shift daily, demanding a measured and even-keeled demeanor while maintaining a commitment to client advocacy.
Resilience, Determination, Adaptability, Respectful Communication, Logical Thinking
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Rachel Cala
Alternate Public Defender
Los Angeles County
University at Buffalo
Pepperdine Law -- Juris Doctorate
English
Government & Public Sector, Law
Legal
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. People who thrive in this industry are determined and persistent, even in the face of setbacks and rejection.
2. Success requires being prepared, prompt, respectful, measured, and adaptable to different personalities and situations.
3. Public defenders must be able to maintain their composure and conviction even when facing opposition and criticism.
Transcript
How would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
I'm going to phrase this like the lawyers I really look up to, the ones I see moving around in court, and I think, "Damn, I want to be more like that person." That person, to me, and really, every public defender can do this, is someone who's able to keep swinging.
When you get beaten down, you get told "no" a lot in this job. "That's not how we do things." "You can't do that." "No, no, no, no." So, the ones that really thrive in the role are ones that keep coming back with logic and determination.
They remain sure about what they're doing, even when someone's trying to ruffle their feathers. They're still able to show up for their client, and I really value that a lot.
But just in general, you've got to be prepared, prompt, and respectful. You have to be measured and even-keeled. There are a lot of personalities in a courtroom, and it changes every day, so you really do have to be adaptable.
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