With a passion for social justice and a commitment to making a difference, Jason Crockford (Law '18) embarked on a remarkable journey that led him to the forefront of the legal system. Through his father's involvement with the ACLU and other social justice organizations, he was deeply influenced by his early exposure to issues of race, class, and poverty. Today, as a dedicated public defender, Jason continues to champion the cause of equality and justice for marginalized communities. Learn more about Jason, including the impact his law school education had on his career and his passion for representing the underrepresented in the Central Valley.
With a goal of transforming her personal traumas into her law firm’s mission, Shanna Hesketh (Law '17) founded Trauma Law California, a personal injury and criminal defense law firm that provides single point of contact, education and support throughout the legal process to its clients. Her journey, marked by the emotional murder trial of her brother and a series of life-altering accidents, not only shaped her legal career but her perspective on the very essence of justice. Learn more about Shanna, including the impact personal experiences have in shaping your career, the importance of empathy in the courtroom, and the undeniable strength that can be forged in the face of adversity.
SJCL’s Professor Miiko Anderson has been awarded the Suzanne McDaniel Memorial Award for Public Awareness, by Congressman Jim Costa. The award honors individuals who have used their voice to support and bring change at the national level, for crime victims. Professor Anderson was recognized at the annual Congressional Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus awards ceremony in Washington D.C. during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (April 23-29, 2023).
Professor Peter Wasemiller (Law ’82) has referred or recommended several students to law school. Among them: Raquel Chavez (3L), Maranee Forsyth (2L), Darren Stemwedel (Law ’12), Kelly Campbell (4L), and Samuel Kyllo (Law ’97).
Peter Wasemiller (Law ’82) has for 40 years fulfilled a lifelong desire to work in higher education. He has served as both an administrator and college professor throughout his career. His decision to enroll in law school was based on the hunch that a robust academic background (right up there with medical school) could help him to realize that goal.
Not only were the soon-to-be-admitted attorneys unwilling to forfeit a month of the raise they expected as they moved up from clerking positions, but many of their employers wanted the attorneys on the job and in court ASAP.