[Press Release #51] Introducing the New Interim Chief Public Defender
Posted: 22 Nov 2025, 20:37
San Andreas Judicial Branch Introducing the New Interim Chief Public Defender "EQUAL JUSTICE UNDER LAW" |
- Citizens of San Andreas,
The San Andreas Judicial Branch is pleased to announce the appointment of Jaz Owens as the new Interim Chief Public Defender. Owens previously served within the Judicial Branch from February 2, 2025 to March 20, 2025, is a self-proclaimed "historian fanatic" and celebrated a birthday just yesterday. His return to the Judicial Branch sparks a renewed passion in the public defense division. The Public Relations Division of the Judicial Branch took time to talk to Owens about coming back to the branch, what he did in-between then and now, and what he sees for the future of the Public Defense Division.
When speaking to Owens about his return to the branch, he shared that he felt a genuine pull back to the work and the people.
Reflecting on his prior career, Owens noted that a wide range of experiences prepared him for this leadership role. From early educational positions to high level government work in other jurisdictions, his path has now circled back to public defense.I missed my time in public defense. I missed the interpersonal communication with my clients and being able to guide them through a fairly complex process to get to the result they wanted. And I missed the people I worked with. All members of the Branch are here to achieve the same goal, which is to ensure justice is served properly and within the bounds of the law.
Owens also described the principles that guide his work. Above all, he emphasized honesty and transparency with the individuals he represents.I have found myself at positions such as Law Student all the way to leadership positions in other branches of government elsewhere. I feel it is time to return to my roots as Public Defense and give the people what they need, which is competent legal defense that does not cost a dime.
Looking ahead, Owens outlined a number of goals for the Public Defender’s Office, many of which focus on accessibility and expansion. He hopes to grow the team, simplify internal processes, and involve the public more directly in understanding the work of public defense. Even in his short time back to the branch, Owens has focused on training our current law students for the Bar Exam and what life will be like after, as an attorney.My guiding philosophy is very simple: honesty. It is vital to be honest with your clients because it creates a reasonable expectation of what is to come. If a client has a poor chance at winning a case, I will inform them of that, though I will try everything in my power to give them the best chance in court.
Owens may be reached at 429-1517 or [email protected].It is my mission to make the job of the Public Defender simple, easily accessible, and plentiful. I would like to expand our office and gain more employees. I hope to host public events with walk in interviews and public mock trials so the public can see what the life of a Public Defender is really like.
The San Andreas Judicial Branch is confident that Interim Chief Public Defender Jaz Owens will bring renewed dedication to the Public Defender’s Office. Citizens seeking free legal representation are encouraged to reach out, as the office remains committed to providing strong defense for all individuals.
The Public Defender’s Office also welcomes applications from those who wish to enter public service, develop their legal skills, and join a team centered on fairness. Individuals interested in applying for a public defense position, participating in upcoming recruitment events, or learning more about the work of the office are invited to contact Interim Chief Owens directly.
The San Andreas Judicial Branch looks forward to the continued growth and positive impact of the Public Defender’s Office under Owens’s leadership.
Branch Administrator
San Andreas Judicial Branch
505-9925 — [email protected]
Public Relations Division
San Andreas Judicial Branch
Rockford Hills City Hall, Carcer Way,
Metro Los Santos, SA