About Scott
Scott McMillan earned a B.A. in Political Science Legal Studies from California State University, Chico in 2009. His undergraduate work emphasized the intersection of law and public policy. Classwork and campus activities directed him toward courtrooms and public service rather than corporate practice.
After finishing his degree, McMillan's career took him into public defense. He served as a Public Defender III in 2019 at the Shasta County Public Defender's Office. In that role he handled a range of criminal matters, worked on pretrial preparation, and represented clients in hearings and trials. The position involved managing a steady caseload and responding to urgent client needs in a county setting.
McMillan is admitted to practice in California and has spent much of his professional life in roles tied to criminal defense and indigent representation. Colleagues describe the work of public defenders as requiring steady case management and the ability to make quick, clear decisions under pressure. McMillan's experience in a busy county office exposed him to the procedural demands of California courts and the realities of local criminal justice practice.
His practice path includes both government service and private work. After his time with the Shasta County Public Defender's Office, he moved into private practice under the name McMillan Law. In private practice he continued to handle criminal cases and to advise clients on procedural and strategic choices. The transition from a public office to his own practice required adjusting to different administrative responsibilities, including client intake, case budgeting, and courtroom scheduling.
Clients and peers have noted that McMillan's background in county public defense informs how he evaluates cases and prepares for trial. He applies courtroom experience to case strategy and to negotiating outcomes that reflect the realities of local prosecutors and judges. His work often involves early assessment of evidence, coordination with investigators, and direct client counseling about options and risks.
He remains based in California and practices through McMillan Law. His current work centers on criminal defense and related matters in California courts.
