APDA Conference 2026

You will be able to validate your attendance (Check-In to sessions) using your personal schedule.

10:00am MST

Demystifying Gang Cases: From Paper Trails to Prison Terms

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am MST

This training examines how gang allegations impact criminal cases and equips public defenders with tools to challenge them at every stage. Participants will learn the legal framework, investigative methods, and strategies to contest gang evidence and expert testimony. The course also provides practical trial approaches to effectively defend clients and hold the state to its burden.

Speakers

Katie Gipson McLean

Attorney, Maricopa Co. Public Defender

Katie is an attorney at Maricopa County Public Defender. She has been with the office since 2017. Katie was born and raised in Central Phoenix and is a graduate of Camelback High School. She is a first-generation college student/graduate and has a B.A. in Secondary Education Social... Read More →

Danial Gomez

Investigator, Maricopa Co. Public Defender

Danial is a felony trial division investigator at Maricopa County Public Defender. He previously worked for Maricopa County Sheriffs Office and specialized in gang/STG work.

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am MST
TBA

Gangs