Jessica Zimbelman Becomes SADO Deputy Director

The State Appellate Defender Office (SADO) is pleased to announce the promotion of Managing Attorney Jessica Zimbelman to the position of Deputy Director.

Jessica has worked at SADO in a variety of roles, including as MAACS Litigation Support Counsel, an Assistant Defender in the Direct Appeals and Juvenile Lifer Units, and – most recently – as a Managing Attorney of Direct Appeals. Prior to joining SADO, Jessica worked for two legislative agencies: as the Senior Analyst at the Legislative Corrections Ombudsman’s Office and as a legislative aide in the Michigan House of Representatives.

Jessica currently co-chairs the Rules and Law Committee of the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan and chairs SADO’s Court Rules and Legislation Committee. Jessica often testifies before the state legislature on pending legislation and offers public comment to the Michigan Supreme Court on pending court rule changes. She works hard to ensure the voices of the people we represent are heard as new laws and rules are adopted. (Jessica’s full bio is available at this link.)

“For over a decade, Jessica has made a positive impact on SADO and on the larger criminal legal community,” says SADO Director Marilena David. She adds: “Jessica is a fierce advocate, thoughtful trainer, and a compassionate leader, and her dedication to client-centered, high-quality representation makes her the ideal fit for SADO's Deputy Director, where she will continue to take the office and the legal community to new heights.”

Congratulations, Jessica!