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Nevada board unanimously forwards Acting Executive Director Peter Handy to governor for appointment
Summary
The board voted unanimously to send Acting Executive Director Peter Handy's name to the governor for consideration as permanent Executive Director; members cited his operational knowledge and proposed mentoring despite limited trial defense experience.
On Thursday the State of Nevada Board on Indigent Defense Services voted unanimously to forward the name of Acting Executive Director Peter Handy to the governor for consideration as the department's permanent Executive Director.
"Peter is doing the work of the ED and he is not getting paid," Chair Laura Fitzsimmons said during the discussion. Several board members acknowledged that Handy lacks Category A trial experience but praised his institutional knowledge, outreach to national mentors, and willingness to be mentored. "I have no problem recommending him for the appointment," Board member Joni Eastley said before moving the nomination; Jarrod Hickman seconded.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Weiss had advised the board that statute calls for submission of at least three names but acknowledged that requirement can yield absurd results when few applicants apply; he recommended setting a deadline and submitting whatever qualified applicants exist. Several board members said the practical option was to forward Handy's name now while seeking mentoring and support resources.
Motion and vote: The board adopted the motion "To Move Peter Handy's Name Forward to the Governor for Executive Director" by a voice vote (motion by Joni Eastley; second by Jarrod Hickman). The motion passed unanimously.
Why it matters: Filling the executive director position is central to department operations and oversight of county compliance, monitoring, and statewide training efforts. The board asked staff to include mentoring resources and noted available monitors and experienced professionals who can provide guidance.
