Often described as a tireless advocate for her staff, the clients they serve and Wisconsin’s criminal justice system in general, veteran State Public Defender Kelli Thompson will speak Thursday, Sept. 28 at the annual W•O•M•E•N reception in Madison.

Thompson oversees an agency that provides legal representation to Wisconsin’s indigent in criminal cases, relying on its own staff as well as appointed private attorneys to handle a massive caseload that ranges from misdemeanors to homicides to appeals.

Attorney Thompson will talk about her tenure at the office, challenges and opportunities for professional women and more during the early evening conversation at J.H. Findorff & Son headquarters, 300 S. Bedford St. A reception will begin at 5:30 p.m. and the presentation at 6:30 p.m.