The Plant City Rotary Club welcomed Hillsborough County Public Defender Lisa McLean for an informative presentation on the vital role of public defense and the innovative work of the 13th Judicial Circuit.

McLean shared the constitutional foundation of the Public Defender’s Office and provided an overview of its scope as the largest criminal defense firm in Tampa, with approximately 220 employees handling more than 60,000 cases annually. She emphasized the office’s holistic approach to public defense, which goes beyond traditional legal representation by connecting clients with health professionals, care providers, mitigation services, and community resources to address underlying issues and improve long-term outcomes.

She also highlighted specialty courts and programs, including Drug Court, Veterans Treatment Court, and Mental Health Court, as well as PD13 Street Legal, an outreach initiative focused on early intervention, education, and expanding access to legal services within the community.

McLean concluded by sharing the office’s commitment to community engagement through partnerships with organizations such as Trinity Cafe, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Hillsborough County Schools, and Children’s Board initiatives. The Plant City Rotary Club thanks Lisa McLean for her dedication to justice and service throughout Hillsborough County.