Tuesday marked the first week for the State Public Defender (SPD) office and I wanted to take a minute to thank our new employees and contract attorneys for their commitment and effort as we all work together to transform public defense in Idaho.

We knew our first week of existence might be difficult – complete with challenges we couldn’t predict.

Whatever those challenges turned out to be, SPD employees and contractors rose up and figured out ways to help our clients. I am humbled by their dedication to our mission.

I’ve heard from all corners of the state how our new SPD employees – and contract and conflict attorneys – are working with the courts and helping each other to ensure the Constitutional rights of ALL our clients are protected. We are, and will continue to be, client-centered in our approach to public defense services.

I – and every member of the SPD administrative staff – are deeply grateful for their resourcefulness, patience, and willingness to do such demanding work.  

With this team of true believers, I know our clients could not be in better hands, because we are all united in doing everything we can do to protect and preserve their rights.

After the last week, I am more confident than ever about our future.

State Public Defender Eric Fredericksen