The FPDO 50th Anniversary Celebration will take place on Friday, October 18, 2024. The Maryland Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, in partnership with The Historical Society for the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, is proud to cohost this milestone event recognizing the 50 years of outstanding service by the Federal Public Defender's Office (FPDO) for the District of Maryland.
Attendees will hear from trailblazers, long-serving staff, alums, and former clients whose stories reflect the Office's legacy of justice, advocacy, and transformation.
Program and Presenters for the FPDO 50th Anniversary Celebration
This year’s FPDO 50th Anniversary Celebration will feature a robust lineup of speakers and panelists whose careers have been deeply intertwined with the Federal Public Defender’s Office.
From founding members to former clients and current leaders, the evening’s program offers insight into the past, present, and future of the Office’s legacy.
Honoring the Founders and Early Contributors
The FPDO 50th Anniversary Celebration will be moderated by Hon. Judge James K. Bredar, a former Public Defender from 1992 to 1998. Judge Bredar will reflect on the FPDO’s founding following the Criminal Justice Act of 1964 and its formal establishment in 1974. Orphans’ Court for Baltimore City’s Hon. Charles Gerald Bernstein, the first Public Defender for the District of Maryland, will share recollections about the Office’s early years, alongside notable former colleagues.
Hon. Judge Paula Xinis will moderate a panel featuring retired and current FPDO team members, including Beth Farber, John Chamble, Jennifer Clouse, Claire Benack, Carrie Corcoran, and Julie Stelzig. They will discuss key issues that shaped the Office, such as federal sentencing guidelines, diversity in recruitment, mental health advocacy during the pandemic, misdemeanor case trends, and the Office’s commitment to capital defense.
Voices of Impact: Clients and Alumni
A deeply moving Client Reflections segment will be led by Paresh Patel and Sapna Mirchandani, spotlighting the transformative impact of the FPDO through the voices of two former clients, Gwendolyn Levi and Kenneth Dixon. Their personal stories illustrate the human side of the Office’s mission.
The final segment, "Reflections from Alumni," will feature Elizabeth Oyer, Premal Dharia, Kobie Flowers, and Lucius Outlaw; each now serves in influential roles in the legal, academic, and advocacy sectors. Their remarks will highlight the enduring impact of the FPDO's client-centered approach and institutional knowledge.
Why Attend the FPDO 50th Anniversary Celebration
The FPDO 50th Anniversary Celebration provides a rare opportunity to honor five decades of tireless advocacy by public defenders and staff in the District of Maryland. It will be a meaningful evening of reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to justice.
This event is especially relevant for legal professionals, public interest advocates, alumni of the Office, and anyone invested in the advancement of equitable defense.
Attendees will:
Hear first-hand stories from the FPDO’s founding members and present-day leaders
Learn how landmark cases and policies shaped the Office's trajectory
Celebrate the lives positively impacted by the FPDO’s work
Connect with colleagues, mentors, and alumni who share a commitment to public service
The celebration will conclude with a reception, giving attendees an informal space to continue the conversation, share memories, and celebrate the FPDO's profound contributions to Maryland's legal landscape.
To learn more or to register for the event, please sign up below.