News Briefing

Katie R. Nelson created a multimedia project (site + photos + film) titled “Being Atticus Finch” that focuses on the lives and work of 3 public defenders in Charlotte: Emily Wallwork, Eddie Thomas Jr., and Danielle Maddox.

Facts

• An event will be held on Friday, April 24 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Kickstand Burgers-n-Bar to premiere the film. At the event, attendees can meet with the lawyers and producer.
• Film is 15 minutes (trailer below).
• Katie is a graduate of Corcoran School of the Arts and Design at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.
• Learn more about the project on beingatticusfinch.com.
• Name of the project comes from the Alabama lawyer in the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

Quote

“I wanted to portray the passion that public defenders everywhere have for helping people in their community, regardless of their social or economic situation. I think the quote from Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black says it all: ‘There can be no equal justice where the kind of trial a man gets depends on the amount of money he has.’” – Producer Katie R. Nelson

Trailer

“Being Atticus Finch’ Trailer from Katie on Vimeo.

Talking Points

• The job these people do is absolutely incredible. Their stories are incredible. Their passion is incredible. Their work ethic is incredible. I’m grateful.
• Insightful post from Chrissie on her blog Off The Eaten Path on what it’s like to be a Charlotte Public Defender, including 8 quick quotes from previous clients. My favorite is when a client tells her, “You’re a bad ass.”

Photos via Katie Nelson Photography.