Few experiences shape a person's career path like firsthand encounters with injustice. For Denise Laureen Turner, a prominent criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis, such a moment came early. As a teenager, she witnessed her younger brother, handcuffed, being led into a juvenile court. That painful memory has not only stayed with her but has also fueled her drive to fight for those ensnared in the criminal justice system.

After graduating from George Washington University Law School in 2010, Turner has dedicated her career to advocating for the underrepresented within Indiana’s judiciary. Starting as a Marion County Public Defender and now handling severe cases including major felonies and federal death penalty trials, Turner is celebrated for her compassion, straightforward communication, and relentless defense of her clients.

In an enlightening interview with *Lawyer Monthly*, Turner discussed how her personal experiences have deepened her empathy for her clients and their families, shedding light on the stark realities of public versus private defense in Indiana, and explaining her interpretation of true justice.

The Inspiration Behind Her Advocacy

Turner vividly recalls the fear and helplessness she felt seeing her brother in court. That experience profoundly impacts how she connects with her clients and their families. She often sees her brother in the young African-American men she defends, intensifying her commitment to securing the best outcomes for them and providing reassurance to their families.

Public vs. Private Defense: A Comparative Insight

Transitioning from a public defender to a private attorney, Turner noticed significant disparities. Public defenders often face overwhelming caseloads, limiting the time they can dedicate to each client. In contrast, private attorneys have the luxury to select their cases, affording them more time to engage with clients and their families and to thoroughly investigate each case. However, public defense lawyers often have better access to resources like in-house investigators and social workers, which can profoundly influence a case's outcome.

Misconceptions in Criminal Defense

One of the most significant misunderstandings Turner encounters is the assumption that all accused individuals are guilty and that the sole aim of defense lawyers is to exonerate them. In reality, her goal is to uphold her clients' rights and ensure the prosecution does its job lawfully. Achieving justice, she notes, doesn’t always mean securing a not-guilty verdict; sometimes, it means a fair trial, a just sentence, or simply having the client’s voice heard.

Advocating for Systemic Changes

Turner is also vocal about the need for reform, particularly concerning bail and the transparency of case data. She supports initiatives like the IndyBar Modest Means Program and suggests expanding such programs to allow more comprehensive coverage, including higher-level felonies, which would help alleviate public defender workloads and enhance justice access.

Guidance for Aspiring Defense Attorneys

To those considering a career in criminal defense, Turner advises finding a personal connection with the clients and cases. This connection not only fuels passion and purpose but also helps in managing the emotional demands of the job. Ensuring self-care is crucial in sustaining one’s ability to advocate effectively.

Turner’s unwavering commitment to criminal defense is deeply humanistic, rooted in the belief that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and defended diligently. Her journey from a troubled sibling observer in a juvenile court to a key figure in Indiana’s defense bar embodies her foundational belief that justice begins with understanding and empathy.