Edwards Named Criminal Defense Lawyers’ Legislative Champion

Rep. Katie Edwards (D-Plantation) has been named the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers’ Legislative Champion for 2013.

Edwards will formally accept the honor at the association’s annual convention in West Palm Beach on Saturday. The recognition stems from Edwards’ sponsorship of House Bill 159, a measure dealing with sentencing for prescription drug possession that is part of an overall “Smart Justice” initiative.

“When I ran for office, one of my goals was to focus on our criminal justice system and to address the exorbitant cost of incarcerating low risk, nonviolent offenders,” said Edwards. “I am honored that the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers has recognized me for my work toward achieving that goal.”

In announcing the award, Derek Byrd, president of the FACDL, a group whose membership includes nearly 2,000 criminal defense lawyers, offered these remarks: “This past legislative session, Representative Edwards sponsored bills that displayed great courage and common sense. Representative Edwards also spoke her mind and stood up for what she believed in while defending personal freedoms.”