Shasta County public defenders face staffing shortages affecting case management and justice access

In a packed Shasta County Board of Supervisors special meeting on March 24, 2025, the challenges faced by public defenders and district attorneys took center stage, revealing a system under strain. As the sun dipped below the horizon, illuminating the faces of those gathered, the urgency of their messages echoed through the hall.

Gina Cortez Nava, a deputy public defender, shared her experience managing a heavy caseload that often exceeds 100 cases, all while lacking adequate support staff. "Justice is delayed and sometimes denied," she stated, highlighting the struggles of her role in guardianships and conservatorships. With only one secretary to assist multiple attorneys, the burden of paperwork and court dates falls heavily on her shoulders. Despite her dedication to helping the indigent, she expressed concern over her financial stability, revealing that her salary does not allow her family to afford basic necessities like a second car or a stable home for their soon-to-arrive child.

Her colleague, Kelly Morrison, echoed these sentiments, detailing the overwhelming demands of her position as a deputy district attorney. With a typical day involving the management of 50 misdemeanor cases, Morrison described the extensive preparation required, often leading her to work late into the night. "We are overworked," she lamented, emphasizing the need for more resources to ensure justice is served efficiently.

Don Beckett, another deputy district attorney, shared his own struggles, noting that despite his experience in other counties, he found himself earning significantly less in Shasta County. He painted a picture of a relentless work schedule that leaves little room for family time, as he juggles trial preparations and case reviews.

The meeting also touched on broader issues of accountability and resource allocation within the county. A speaker raised concerns about the enforcement of laws and the perceived conflicts of interest among county officials, urging the board to prioritize funding for the justice system.

As the meeting concluded, the collective voices of public defenders and district attorneys painted a stark picture of a legal system grappling with underfunding and overwhelming workloads. Their commitment to justice remains unwavering, but the path forward requires urgent attention and action from county leadership to ensure that all residents receive the fair representation they deserve.