Judy Clarke and a Career in Criminal Defense

Nationally recognized trial attorney with decades of federal trial and appellate experience.

Judy Clarke

Federal Trial & Appellate Experience

After receiving her law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law, Ms. Clarke joined the Federal Defenders of San Diego as a trial attorney. Within five years, she became Executive Director while continuing to try cases in federal court in San Diego.

Shortly after leaving the San Diego Federal Defenders, she was recruited to lead the Federal Defenders of Eastern Washington and Idaho, practicing before the federal courts in the Eastern District of Washington and the District of Idaho for nearly ten years before returning to San Diego.

Ms. Clarke is a nationally recognized trial lawyer who has argued numerous appellate cases, including two before the United States Supreme Court.

Industry Insights: A Master Strategist with a Human-Centred Focus

Others have praised Judy Clarke's integrity, work ethic, and ability to help jurors see that people should not be defined solely by the worst act of their lives.

Exceptional Litigation & Legal Strategy

  • CBS News: Described Clarke as a "renowned criminal defense attorney" with a "formidable background in capital cases" who "specializes in saving lives".
  • Ronald Kuby: Called her a perfect choice for complex high-profile defense, labeling her as "a lawyer who saves her clients' lives".
  • Reuben Camper Cahn: Noted she is "especially good at remaining open to the suffering of the victims" while accurately considering how jurors and victims will perceive defense moves.

Unrivaled Client Commitment & Devotion

  • Jonathan Shapiro (via NPR): Emphasized that Clarke possesses "endless patience and will spend whatever time it takes" to support and defend her clients.
  • The New York Times: Recognizes her universally as a master strategist who brings unconditional commitment to the table.
  • The Atlantic: “Judy Clarke is a legal legend”.

Contact Information