I started my career working as a prosecutor in the Baltimore City State's Attorney's Office. From 2003 to 2007, I prosecuted cases ranging from simple misdemeanors to complex felonies. I came to the conclusion that the criminal justice system in Baltimore was disfunctional and often treated people unfairly, especially the poor and vulnerable. I left because I wanted to help people and because I did not want to continue to be part of the failed war on drugs. In 2007, I was fortunate enough to join the Maryland Office of the Public Defender. I left in 2016 to start a private practice. You can read more about me on my website http://www.williamcookelaw.com.