“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.”
-Maya Angelou

The female criminal defense attorneys I have encountered over the years possess an unbridled passion for justice. Women can bring to the table effective listening skills, the ability to be persuasive in the courtroom, and a unique depth of compassion.

Mentorship of the next generation of female criminal defense lawyers is critical. Historically women have been underrepresented in the legal profession as a whole, but in particular the criminal defense bar. Strides have been made, but it is incumbent upon women currently in the field to foster the growth of female lawyers and inspire them to pursue careers in criminal defense. Leadership by example can make a difference, but being active in a bar association, hosting and participating in events gear