La Mer Kyle-Griffiths

La Mer Kyle-Griffiths is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Iowa, affiliated with the Undergraduate Human Rights Program. She is a lifelong public defender with extensive experience in criminal practice, including death penalty trials, juvenile representation, and appellate work. Her career spans roles in Seattle’s Department of Public Defense and Boston’s Youth Advocacy Division, where she focused on holistic juvenile defense using the Positive Youth Development model.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD), University of Dayton

Research Interests:

• Criminal Law and Juvenile Justice
• Sentencing and Mitigation Strategies
• Legal Education and Trial Skills Training
• DNA Evidence and Holistic Defense Practices
• Death Penalty Litigation and Post-Disposition Appeals
• Positive Youth Development in Legal Representation

She has taught investigators, attorneys, mitigation specialists, and law students on topics including trial advocacy and DNA evidence. Her work emphasizes holistic legal approaches and training within public defense systems.