L-R: KATHY TARSIEWICZ, JUDY DINEHART, MARYANNE PRESTON, KATHLEEN SMITH, KERRI THEISEN, AND MIRIAM SHOOK.
Kathy Smith, Public Defender for the 20th Judicial Circuit, provided an insightful look into the legal system from the defense perspective for our members on April 6.
Kathy began her career in 1990 after graduating from the Univ. of Florida and quickly developed a passion for the law. Today, her office handles approximately 35,000 cases, with about 60% originating in Lee County. The range of cases is broad, spanning from minor offenses such as open container violations, to serious charges including capital murder.
The 20th Judicial Circuit covers five counties and employs around 140 staff members, including 80 attorneys. In an interesting and relatable approach to training, Kathy shared that films like My Cousin Vinny and A Few Good Men are used to help educate new attorneys on courtroom procedures and strategy.
Our region currently benefits from one of the lowest crime rates in Florida, which Kathy attributes to strong law enforcement, effective prosecution, and innovative programs like the re-entry task force she developed in partnership with the Sheriff’s Office.
Kathy highlighted the impact of this initiative by sharing data from a repeat offender who had been arrested more than 350 times, costing taxpayers over $1,050,000. Through her research, she found that many repeat offenders lacked the basic resources needed to comply with probation requirements.
The re-entry task force now provides critical support services including identification, telehealth access, housing, and food assistance. By shifting resources from incarceration to prevention and support, the program not only reduces costs but also improves public safety—delivering a meaningful return on investment for the community.
We thanked Kathy for sharing her time and expertise, and for the important work she continues to do in our community.
Of note: Many in attendance asked how they could help. Kathleen shared several organizations she has found invaluable in helping repeat offenders access the resources they need to become productive citizens and successfully reenter the community. Her team recommended: Kimmie’s Recovery Zone, The Community Cooperative, St. Vincent de Paul and United Way. They are all great places to donate, as clients regularly receive assistance with housing, food, and services from all of these organizations.
