This session is designed for leaders across all roles to explore what leadership truly means, and how each person can identify, own, and center their unique gifts to lead more effectively — whether they're managing a team, a caseload, an office, or simply showing up as an example for others.
Participants will examine the core elements of transformational leadership — a model built on inspiring and elevating others rather than simply directing them — and will leave with a clearer sense of their own values, a stronger grasp of why vision matters, and practical tools for communicating with clarity and purpose. This is a working session, not a lecture: expect reflection, discussion, and real application to the challenges leaders face daily in public defense work.
Session Goals
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Define leadership as a practice, not a position — recognizing that leadership is exercised through influence, initiative, and example, regardless of formal authority or role (attorney, paralegal, admin, or otherwise).
- Identify and name their own leadership gifts — using a strengths-based lens to help each person see what they already bring, rather than measuring themselves against a single "leader" archetype.
- Understand the core tenets of transformational leadership, including:
- Idealized influence — leading in a way that earns trust and respect through consistency and character
- Inspirational motivation — articulating a compelling vision that gives work meaning
- Intellectual stimulation — encouraging innovation, questions, and creative problem-solving
- Individualized consideration — mentoring and attending to the growth of each team member
