With a distinguished career spanning over thirteen years as a stalwart advocate for criminal justice, I am unwaveringly dedicated justice. My profound commitment to upholding the principles of justice is underscored by a wealth of experience in both legislative and judicial realms.

Legal Experience:

Since July 2022, I have served as contract counsel, specializing in providing legal representation for indigent clients confronted with complex cases. My role has involved a meticulous examination of various cases to assess eligibility in light of recent legislative changes. I am entrusted with handling cases that involve the most intricate legal issues within the criminal legal system, I have managed the evaluation of Racial Justice Act Claims, Motions to Dismiss, and Habeas Corpus Petitions, among other legal matters.

Throughout this tenure, I have taken on the responsibility of engaging in cutting-edge litigation, consistently contributing to the development of legal precedent at the appellate level. My dedication to navigating complex legal landscapes underscores my commitment to fostering justice and ensuring the utmost advocacy for those facing formidable legal circumstances.

From June 2019 to July 2022, I served as Deputy Conflict Counsel at the Humboldt County Conflict Counsel’s Office in Eureka, CA. In this capacity, I acted as a trial attorney for both felony and misdemeanor cases, advocating for indigent clients in the pursuit of justice. My responsibilities entailed devising and executing legal strategies across all facets of criminal defense, encompassing sentence exposure evaluations, plea negotiations, legal motion filings, and trial proceedings.

In the course of my tenure at the Conflict Counsel's Office, I was entrusted with the pivotal role of Interim Supervising Attorney, demonstrating a capacity for leadership and managerial discernment. In this capacity, I skillfully oversaw a team of attorneys and staff members, assuming responsibility for key decision-making processes that influenced the operational dynamics of the office.

My role extended beyond legal considerations, encompassing the judicious management of personnel. This involved making informed decisions regarding staff changes, a responsibility that required a keen understanding of individual strengths and areas for development. Moreover, I assumed a proactive role in ensuring the safety and security of the office building and premises, implementing measures to safeguard both personnel and assets.

By integrating legal expertise with astute management, I contributed to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the Conflict Counsel's Office, fostering an environment that prioritized both professional excellence and the well-being of its members.

Prior to my tenure in Humboldt County, I held the position of Deputy Public Defender at the San Joaquin County Public Defender’s Office in Stockton, CA, from March 2015 to April 2019. During this time, I specialized in representing indigent clients facing the most intricate and severe felony charges in San Joaquin County. In addition to my trial work, I also took on a mentoring role, providing guidance and support to junior attorneys handling misdemeanor cases and preliminary hearings.

From January 2011 to March 2015, I operated as the Lawyer and Owner of the Law Office of April Van Dyke in Stockton, CA. In this capacity, my practice primarily focused on providing legal representation to indigent clients facing criminal charges. Alongside my legal responsibilities, I managed and supervised a team of support staff, ensuring smooth operations and effective client service within the firm.

Legislative Experience:

I authored and secured sponsorship for SB516, a groundbreaking legislative initiative mandating the bifurcation of prejudicial evidence during trials. This important work was further highlighted by my compelling testimony before the Senate Public Safety Committee, resulting in the bill's passage through the Committee.

I played a pivotal role in the legislative process by assuming the responsibilities of both drafter and committee chair for SB 923 during the 2018 legislative session. I successfully navigated the legislative landscape, this bill was passed by the California Senate and assembly and is enshrined in law as Penal Code Section 859.7. The significance of this legislation lies in its contribution to the prevention of false identification of innocent individuals, thereby fortifying the integrity of the justice system.

Furthermore, from 2019 to 2022, I actively contributed my legal expertise as a dedicated member of the California Public Defender Association Legislative Committee. Through my participation in this committee, I engaged in comprehensive discussions and initiatives aimed at shaping legislative policies that align with the core values and objectives of the legal community. This extended commitment underscores my ongoing dedication to effecting positive change within the legal framework and exemplifies my sustained contributions to legislative endeavors.