For Sara Frick, the law has always been about people before process.

She spends her days as an assistant public defender untangling problems most of us never see up close: suspended licenses, missed court dates, medication lapses and the chain reaction that follows when someone is already struggling.

Her path began with a summer law school internship at the Public Defender’s Office, an experience she describes as a turning point.

“I learned how often people end up in the criminal justice system because of untreated mental health issues or a lack of basic resources,” she says. “It made me realize how much work there is to do outside the courtroom.”

Sara often talks about what she calls the snowball effect and how one broken-down car can lead to missed court, warrants, fees and a suspended license. It is why she focuses on connecting clients with transportation, medication support or financial assistance when she can.

“The things that seem small to one person can mean everything to another,” she says.

Her own experience with neurodivergence reshaped the way she advocates for others. Understanding her own brain helped her better understand the people she represents. She encourages clients and colleagues to see therapy not as a last resort but as a tool for wellness.

“The stigma is a barrier, and I’m trying to break it down one conversation at a time.”

Sara hopes her work is remembered for kindness, clarity and a firm sense of justice.

“I want people to know I went above and beyond to figure out the real problem and prevent future issues,” she says.

Her philosophy can be summed up in one sentence: “Go into the world and do well, but more importantly, go into the world and do good.”