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Episode 07 - Cases & Compassion: Jessica Glendening, Seventh Judicial District Public Defender

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Chapters
1:22
Jessica Glendening, Chief Public Defender in Douglas County
3:25
What a Public Defender Does
8:58
Appointed Attorney Process
15:12
Common Misconceptions
19:08
Importance of Public Defenders
23:53
How Attorneys Approach a Case
26:54
Support for the Public Defender Offices
32:23
Dynamics of Defending Clients
41:52
Human Side of the Courtroom
46:43
Favorite Holiday
48:24
Fun Questions to Wrap Up
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Episode 07 - Cases & Compassion: Jessica Glendening, Seventh Judicial District Public Defender
Nov 04, 2025 Season 1 Episode 8
Douglas County Sheriff's Office

Douglas County Sheriff Jay Armbrister interviews Jessica Glendening, chief public defender in Douglas County, in a conversation about different aspects of the legal system. 

Glendening discusses her 16-year career in criminal defense, including her roles in Shawnee and Douglas counties. She explains the differences between public defenders and retained attorneys and prosecutors, the challenges of managing caseloads and the importance of addressing clients' non-legal needs. Glendening also highlights the misconceptions about public defenders and the adversarial nature of the legal system. 

She emphasizes the rewarding aspects of her job, such as helping clients with mental health and substance abuse issues. The conversation underscores the collaborative efforts in Douglas County to support reentry and community well-being.