GARY ROBBINS, PUBLIC DEFENDER

Most lawyers don't stay long in the public defender's office. The pay is much lower than private practice, and the long hours and demanding schedule can be frustrating and sometimes thankless. But the public defender represents a key role in America's system of justice. The system recognizes that defendants facing criminal charges are entitled to legal representation regardless of their financial means.

Defendants in Cape Girardeau County were fortunate to have Gary Robbins in their corner for nearly 19 years -- an unprecedented tenure for a public defender. His years on the job earned him recognition as Missouri's longest-serving public defender.

But now Robbins is moving on to a new job: legal adviser with the Missouri Division of Workers Compensation in Cape Girardeau.

Robbins was hired in July 1977 as the first public defender for Cape Girardeau and Bollinger counties. More than 25 assistant public defenders have come and gone since then. He lived by two judicious rules: "Your word is your bond" and "We're here to help clients." He put principles ahead of personal wealth.

He has managed the workload as a true professional, handling more than 200 jury trials. Robbins estimates he has represented about 30,000 clients since he started as a public defender in Missouri. The numbers are mindboggling.

Robbins did an exemplary job of representing criminal defendants in the region, helping to strike a fair balance in the system of justice. He leaves the job with an impressive record of service to Missouri. His expertise in the public defender's office will be sorely missed.