What Our Members Have to Say
Edwin Aralica, Kent
I have been a WACDL member for eight years. WACDL has been very important in daily practice as a public defender. I have been able to consult with other attorneys around the state about issues through the listserv. This has helped me craft and argue issues in my courts. The ability to brainstorm with others is for me the most valuable thing about WACDL. Finally, I am happy to be part of an organization that supports the issues that I believe are in important in Olympia.
Geoffrey Burg, Seattle
WACDL provides unsurpassed support to our community and our efforts for justice. Without WACDL working for us, our jobs would be significantly more difficult.
Bob Butler, Bellingham
WACDL has proved time and time again to be an invaluable resource for improving the representation of those accused of crimes in our state. From robust use of the listserves for brainstorming legal theories to outstanding CLEs, ethics hotline support, and strike force assistance.
Jonathan Dichter, Mill Creek
Being a part of WACDL (since being in law school) has helped me immeasurably in my defense practice. Having such a group of mentors, CLEs, and list serves are things I'm grateful for - and I use the material I've learned every day in my practice!
Tricia Hahn, Olympia
WACDL is important to me for a variety of reasons. I’ve learned so much from other members – the CLEs are excellent, and because of the list-serve, I’ve had questions answered that I didn’t know I needed to ask! It is a dedicated, skillful, and passionate group that I am proud to be a part of.
Steve Hayne, Bellevue
My WACDL membership has been a source of personal and professional support at many critical times in my career. There is simply no other organization looking out for our interests. That’s why I’ve been a WACDL member since its inception.
Roy Howson, Mount Vernon
I want to once again re-affirm the value of [the WACDL email discussion groups]. On Thursday afternoon I put up a notice about a border search case. I returned to my computer less than ½ hour later and another member had posted a note about a case he won in the COA. Not only was it on point, it was nearly identical, and essentially constitutes my brief. Talk about a great research tool!! It really is important to be a member of WACDL.
Brit Mercer, Seattle
I joined WACDL as a law student, not knowing at the time what a tremendous resource and critical part of my practice this organization would end up to be. Over ten years later, WACDL is an integral part of my practice and my identity as a criminal defense attorney. WACDL membership provides invaluable access to other defense attorneys for everything from brainstorming on novel legal issues to strike force support when needed. Being a WACDL member makes you part of a team and gives you the knowledge you need to fight for your clients, and the comfort and camaraderie of knowing you’re not in it alone.
Amy Muth, Seattle
I was a member of WACDL before I was a member of the bar. I have learned much from other members in this organization and have relied on them for support and camaraderie. It's also been great for my professional development, as I've been able to chair committees and task forces, participate in the legislative process, write amicus briefs and articles, and speak at CLE programs. I benefit from being a WACDL member, but most important — my clients benefit. I recommend WACDL membership to all criminal defense lawyers.
Jonathan Rands, Bellingham
I have been a member of WACDL since 2000 first as a third year law student, then as a general member and serving as a board member since 2006. WACDL is the single most important criminal defense organization a defense lawyer can, and should belong to. If you are not a member, you are neglecting valuable support and resource.
Jeff Robinson, Seattle
I joined WACDL to improve my practice, meet other criminal defense lawyers, and to have a resource in the organization and its members when I need help on a case. My decision to join was one of the best decisions I have made.
Damon Shadid, Seattle
WACDL membership is essential for any attorney practicing criminal law in Washington. The list-serve alone is worth its weight in gold. The advocacy WACDL provides for the criminal defense attorneys and their clients is one of the most important assets any non-WACDL member never knew they benefited from.
