Community Partner: Office of Public Defender ‐ Post Conviction Defenders Division Intern: Ryan Kellner Site Supervisor: Norm Handwerger
What is the Post Conviction Defenders Division? Post Conviction Defenders Division is dedicated to ensuring fairness in criminal convictions and protecting the integrity of our criminal justice system. PCD represents indigent inmates at post‐conviction proceedings throughout the state of Maryland.
I believe in the law as a redemptive tool, one that constructs an equitable system for those both in and out of the criminal justice system. In approaching my internship with the Office of the Public Defender, I intended to search for the flaws in the law that take away from that equitable system. In doing so, I have started to define my future role as an attorney, I have received training in the practice of criminal law, and I have conversed with representatives of the law who provided a more practical perspective. My weekly responsibilities varied depending on the needs of the Post Conviction Defenders Division. One week, I found myself drafting a memorandum on behalf of a client who would soon go in front of the Maryland Parole Commission. The next, I drafted a Motion for Modification of Sentence on behalf of a client, helping him search for transitional housing and employment upon his release. In my final weeks, I conducted research into Maryland case law on behalf of a client petitioning for court‐ordered drug treatment. Almost every week I had access to the division’ s attorneys, shadowing their hearings, discussing ongoing cases, and even meeting their clients. This practical experience gave credence to my idea of the law as a redemptive tool; I found legal recourse to assist individuals with fair sentencing, affordable housing, and constructive employment. The idea of expanding my role as an advocate in the criminal justice system as an attorney excites me. There is more work to be done in the realms of fair sentencing and rehabilitative procedure, but I have learned that I can have a hand in persuading judges, and even the legislature, to encourage these fair practices. I know that I want to work in the criminal justice system as an attorney, but I am still parsing through the roles I may take. I used my time as an intern with the Post Conviction Defenders Division to define my role as an advocate. I cannot say I will leave the office knowing what role I aim to take, but I know I will lobby for the redemptive system I know the law can and will be. ‐ Ryan
Tasks:
• Drafted motions to modify and reconsider sentences that would go before local judges
• Interviewed clients for information regarding their legal proceedings and upcoming hearings
• Attended hearings and client interviews with attorneys
• Conducted research into Maryland case law on behalf of attorneys preparing for hearings
• Wrote case summaries, reports on clients ' institutional progress, and other inquiries at the behest of attorney