Indiana Public Defender Susan K. Carpenter is retiring in May after almost 30 years in that position, the state’s highest court announced this morning.

The Indiana Supreme Court appointed Carpenter as state public defender in 1981, serving as defense counsel to indigent prison inmates challenging convictions and sentences. The office has tripled in size and developed a capital unit with a strong reputation during her tenure.

The court has not yet finalized its process to appoint a successor.

This story will be updated.