Attorney Kent Hart from the Utah Public Defender’s Office addressed students on February 26, 2016, about working as a public defender. Hart, who is also the Executive Director of the Utah Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, detailed his career path and gave insights as to what students might experience should they work as public defenders.
Describing his experience as a public defender, Hart said he sees it as “a calling, not a job.” According to Hart, working as a public defender can bring the satisfaction of helping people that many attorneys seek, but often struggle to find.
“You really feel like you’re helping people and making a difference,” he said.
For students considering working in public defense, he encouraged them to build their network by becoming involved in the Utah Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.