Mitchell Cozad: A Big Step From Defendant to Defender

The Colorado State Public Defender’s office is an active hub for attorneys aiding those accused of crimes, with constant activity and case overload. Among its busy staff, Mitchell Cozad stands out for his unique journey, from being convicted of assault to becoming a Deputy State Public Defender. His dual perspective on the legal system and transformation from a past offender to a defender of the indigent in Colorado is noteworthy. Cozad’s story is one of redemption; he has moved beyond his previous errors, using his experiences to contribute positively to society.

In 2004, Mitchell Cozad joined the University of Wyoming (UW) football team as a preferred walk-on and was an active member of the team that secured the 2004 Las Vegas Bowl victory against UCLA. He stayed with the Cowboys until 2006 before transferring to the University of Northern Colorado on a scholarship. He was nationally recognized for his physical strength and conditioning.

In 2006, Mitchell Cozad’s future seemed promising, highlighted by his achievements in both athletics and academics. However, Cozad’s life took a dramatic turn due to substance abuse, which not only impaired his decision-making but also altered his behavior and mood. This deviation from his planned future directly led to troubling actions, marking a clear departure from the path he had envisioned for himself.  It was during a critical period of introspection behind bars that he truly confronted the impact of his actions. This deep self-examination led to a profound transformation, both personally and professionally. Acknowledging his past, Cozad committed to righting his wrongs and contributing to the community in a positive way. This marked the beginning of his journey from athlete to advocate, dedicating himself to supporting those marginalized and driving change within the legal system.

“I observed how my actions affected my family, friends, and personal relationships, leading to an understanding of the impact it had on the victim, his family, and the community,” Cozad reflects. “It became clear that my focus had been solely on myself and not on anyone else. Admitting to myself that I was to blame for my own problems wasn’t easy, but the more I confronted the truth and accepted responsibility, the more I began to evolve. It’s true that sometimes you need to hit rock bottom to truly discover who you are and start moving in a better direction.”

Cozad’s experience in prison also illuminated the criminal justice system’s shortcomings, especially its focus on punishment over rehabilitation. He spent his time assisting fellow inmates with legal documentation, slowly shaping his ambition to become an attorney. This realization spurred his ambition to advocate for change and support individuals facing similar predicaments. Assisting fellow inmates and confronting the challenges of reintegration into society fortified his resolve to pursue a legal career, motivated by a desire to enact positive change.

After his release, Mitchell Cozad’s pursuit of education became a cornerstone of his rehabilitation. He completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, focusing on Alternative Dispute Resolution. This period of study was marked by significant personal development as he worked towards becoming more empathetic, patient, and understanding. His academic achievements, alongside his internships and continuous personal development, laid the foundation for his future role in defending the rights of the indigent.

A former UW assistant coach, who requested anonymity, wasn’t surprised by Cozad’s transition into law, attributing it to the qualities observed during his college years. “Mitch was someone who always put in the work, on and off the field. He was coachable with an exceptional work ethic and determination,” the coach remarked. These traits, according to the coach, have clearly played a significant role in shaping Cozad’s legal career. Despite being taken aback 18 years ago by Cozad’s involvement in an assault case—an act not aligning with the person they knew —the coach now reflects on Cozad’s journey with pride. “Seeing Mitch overcome these obstacles and evolve into the person he is today fills me with a great sense of pride and happiness,” the coach concluded.

Today, as a Deputy State Public Defender, Mitchell Cozad brings to his work not only the knowledge and skills acquired through his legal training but also a deeply personal understanding of the impacts of substance abuse, poor decision-making, and the transformative power of redemption. His story serves as a powerful testament to the capacity for personal change and the pivotal role of second chances in shaping a life dedicated to service and advocacy. His extensive caseload and dedication to his clients reflect his deep commitment to his role and the difference he seeks to make in the legal system. Cozad’s transformation from defendant to defender underscores the belief that past mistakes do not define one’s future but can inspire a drive to make meaningful contributions to society and the lives of others.