Lawanda Lyons-Pruitt
I began my career as a Defense Investigator in 1984 with the Santa Barbara County Public Defender Office where I remain today serving as the Chief Investigator (since 1995) for the County.
Some of my proudest accomplishments relative to defense work are: holding a Bachelor of Science in criminology from California State University, Long Beach, being a founding member of DITA and seeing it’s successful launch, serving as the first Chairperson and Instructor of Record of DITA, continuing to serve as the Instructor of Record and as a committee member of DITA, and my many years of service on the DIA Board of Directors (since the late 80’s).
Growing up in the Deep South in the 60’s and 70’s afforded me the opportunity to have a deep understanding and appreciation of injustice and unfairness which is I believe gives me the passion I have for this line of work. Accepting a position with the Public Defender’s Office was one of the best decisions I have ever made as this job has allowed me to grow and become the person I am today. That person is one who believes in the Constitution and is totally committed to it’s precepts including defending those less fortunate by allowing their voice to be heard whether that is by conducting a vigorous investigation or working the case up for Jury Trial. My Motto is “But for the Grace of God, There goes I.”
On a personal level, I am a die hard Lakers fan!!
If you are reading this for the first time, have a great day. If you are reading this for the second or third time, likewise!!!
