#173 Moving to Las Vegas and starting over with Rick Luman

Veteran investigator Rick Luman in his own words....

"One year ago, we took a huge leap of faith and moved to a city we had not visited in over 20 years, Las Vegas, NV to call our new home. As my new challenge as a criminal defense investigator with the Clark County Special Public Defender was only a few days away, we pulled into our apartment complex and I asked my wife, “What did we just do?’ She sighed and said, “Give it a few weeks. We have both worked so hard, and yes, we deserve this.” I smiled with a ton of self-doubt. Fast-forward one year. This has been one of the most challenging, yet rewarding times in my professional career. I have seen the best of Las Vegas, and its very darkest side. Worked with clients who are both first-time offenders, and those with extensive criminal histories. Investigated cases beyond what I thought was possible, and spent countless sleepless nights wondering how I could have done better for them. Felt proud inside when cases are reduced from decades in prison to only a few years and am angered when DA’s fail to see their case is poor, yet remain steadfast in seeing our clients sentenced to long-term incarceration. Have clients say, “Thank you for all you did for me” and those who you will never satisfy. I have met and become friends with some incredibly driven people who continue the fight for indigent clients. Would I change the last year, absolutely not? What many of you don’t know about me is this. I grew up in a small town of 600 people in northwest Ohio and worked for the local Sheriff’s Office for 19.5 years. Transitioned into the Private Investigation field, and then into public defender criminal defense work exclusively for the past 3+ years. Was told I would never be successful, and needed to just settle. Well, those who doubted are now wrong. I work in one of the best places in the world, in a job that I love, and have an incredible support system. Dreams do come true, even if they take a little longer than expected. Never stop believing in not only yourself but those closest to you. God Bless..........."