As it turns out, public defenders are less Superman and more Sisyphus, and there's no small number of lawyers who wind up crushed under the weight of the infinite caseloads and the crappy hours and the shitty pay.
The quote reflects the harsh reality faced by public defenders, who are often overwhelmed by their demanding workloads. Instead of being heroic figures like Superman, they resemble the mythological Sisyphus, endlessly pushing a boulder uphill, only for it to roll back down. This analogy highlights the futility and stress they experience due to insufficient resources and support.
Many lawyers in this field struggle with unmanageable caseloads, long hours, and low compensation, leading to burnout and disillusionment. The comparison emphasizes the challenges inherent in public defense work, illustrating how systemic issues can detract from their ability to serve justice effectively.