SADO is hiring! Apply now!

Multiple positions open; application due dates vary by position

SADO is the oldest and only state-wide public defender office in Michigan. SADO staff works to fulfill our mission of fighting injustice in the criminal and youth legal systems through access, advocacy, compassion, and education. Read more


SADO seeks summer interns

Applications are due by January 12, 2026 at 5 PM

SADO is seeking first- and second-year law students committed to public service, racial equity, and social justice to join its Summer Internship Program. Read more


Project Reentry: When should I start preparing and what should I do?

From the October 2025 Criminal Defense Newsletter

Returning to the community after a significant time away can be both exciting and intimidating—especially when it comes to employment. The job market may feel unfamiliar, and the challenges of reentry can be discouraging. But with the right mentality and approach, parolees can build a stable, meaningful path toward long-term success. Read more


Narcotic drugs: Penalties and special scoring provisions under Michigan law

From the October 2025 Criminal Defense Newsletter

The word “narcotics” has special meaning in criminal law, although this may come as a surprise to some attorneys. It turns out the term applies to a limited class of drugs (most opium-based) and it has the potential to determine maximum penalty for a crime and the scoring of the sentencing guidelines. Read more


Safe & Just Michigan

From the October 2025 Criminal Defense Newsletter

The Michigan Legislature finalized a budget deal with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer last month. Included in that budget is $750,000 for the new Michigan Sentencing Commission, which was signed into law by the governor earlier this year. Read more


Ask an appellate attorney: Meaning of “lack of merit” language in Court of Appeals’ orders

From the October 2025 Criminal Defense Newsletter

At the CDRC, we regularly receive questions from defense attorneys around the state. In this column, we will reprint our answers to common or interesting questions that might be helpful to a wider audience. Read more


View Past Articles

Media Releases