Public Defense Commissions w/David Kaplan and Sara Hildebrand

Today, I speak with David Kaplan and Sara Hildebrand, two former Colorado public defenders and current members of the Aurora Public Defender Commission.

The three of us dive deep into Public Defense Commissions, how they function, and the important work they do in advocating for public defenders. 

The commission side of public defense offers a unique insight into how policy is made and the types of negotiations that need to be made. The fact is, there’s more that goes into it than you might think!

If you are a public defender who wants to start a commission or someone who’s not an attorney and wants to get involved, this is the perfect episode for you!

Key Topics and Takeaways:

• Sara and David’s background. [5:27]

• Sara’s challenges of being in a remote area. [11:01]

• The progression of David’s career. [14:16]

• Sara and David’s work in public policy. [20:10]

• How the commission works with policymakers. [29:44]

• Why commissions are important. [33:10]

• Building institutional support. [37:38]

• Staying on the peoples’ side. [50:31]

Guests:

David Kaplan, Former Colorado State Public Defender and Aurora Public Defender Commission Member

Sara Hildebrand former Public Defender in Durango/Arpahoe County and Aurora Public Defender Commission Member

Resources:

Aurora Public Defender Commission

Memorable Quotes:

“You don't have to be a lawyer to make these changes, to be passionate about reform and taking efforts to change your community. That's a key goal. That's a key theme of this show is that you do not have to be an attorney to understand this and to make changes.” (2:27, Hunter)

“I think those of us who ended up being public defenders never lose the spirit of being a public defender.” (9:55, David)

“When you do policy work, you have to have a broader understanding. There has to be, I believe a greater amount of compromise.” (24:32, David)

“Our obligation as defenders, whether as a state defender or a municipal defender or a federal defender, is to zealously advocate for our clients. And like David was saying, that means that our clients should feel like they have the best lawyer in the courtroom.” (28:21, Sara)

“We represent the people and the community, right? And so in a democratic environment, that should mean something.” (40:01, Sara)

“I think a key part of our role is to humanize people that are accused in a system that's just expert at dehumanizing people.” (56:27, Sara)