It is an incredible undertaking to be a criminal defense attorney. It requires self-care, continuing education, steadfastness, bravery, and a big heart. In order to be successful, you must work with and against people who have more resources, support, and decision-making power than you. At times daunting, at other times exhilarating. None of it can be accomplished alone.

I was an honorary member of GACDL since I was a child, coming to GACDL seminars with my mother, Linda Sheffield. Because of her, I met a handful of mentors who were willing to guide me early on in my career. They were my first employer, Dwight Thomas, and my current partners, Doug Peters and Bob Rubin. Their advice and hers was clear: you must put yourself in the client’s shoes; embrace the law; and get involved with GACDL. Nothing has served me better than being encouraged to invest my time, energy, and heart into GACDL.......