Department Announces New Office of Public Defender Director

• Belinda Adams
• August 31 2022

HELENA, Mont. – Department of Administration Director Misty Ann Giles today announced Brett Schandelson has been hired as director of the Office of Public Defender (OPD) starting September 1, 2022.

“Brett stepped up and successfully led the department as acting director. During that time, he demonstrated leadership, dedication to serving those most in need of assistance, and ensuring our citizens’ constitutional right to counsel is protected,” said Director Giles. “I’m confident in Brett’s ability to lead OPD and keep moving the department forward to meet the needs of Montanans.”

Since June 2022, Brett Schandelson has served as acting director for OPD after Rhonda Lindquist retired. He is currently chief of OPD’s Development and Operations Bureau and manages the office’s data, reporting, IT services, contracts, public policy, media relations, and special projects.

 “I’m honored for this opportunity to lead the department and continue building on its solid foundation and structure,” said Schandelson. “Getting to continue working with such a dedicated and compassionate team makes me excited for the future and everything we will accomplish.”

Originally from Great Falls, Schandelson attended Montana State University before graduating from the University of Montana School of Law in 2008. After a decade-long litigation career, primarily focused on criminal defense in state courts, Schandelson joined OPD in 2018.

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