Registration opens:
July 06th, 2026 at 9:00am

Details = Credibility

Write Here

Making your crime story believable.

Space is limited and registration is required. This workshop is designed for participants 16+.

Want to write compelling crime stories that readers can’t wait to dive into? Details matter. Readers of crime novels and detective stories have never been savvier. Over the years, thanks to police procedural TV, readers have a wealth of knowledge about police investigations. Thankfully, it’s also never been easier to research and understand investigation technology. Join retired criminal lawyer and author, Lori Hellis, for a fact-filled class on writing the gritty stuff in a way that readers believe.

About the Instructor: 

Author, Lori Hellis is a distinguished criminal and family attorney whose seasoned legal career spanned nearly three decades.

Her expertise goes beyond the courtroom as she delves into the most intricate and riveting crime stories, offering clarity and insight that cuts through the headlines. Lori's deep understanding of the law, police procedure, and her intimate grasp of the criminal psyche position her as a formidable interpreter of even the most complex legal stories.

Before her retirement, Lori served as both a prosecutor and a public defender. Her extensive experience includes advocating for hundreds of adult and juvenile defendants across a spectrum of criminal charges, including serious violent offenses. Lori's educational background is as impressive as her legal career; she holds a BA in Journalism, a Juris Doctor, and an MFA in Creative Writing.

Lori's passion for the law matches her commitment to service, evidenced by a two-decade-long tenure in the Air National Guard, where she specialized in public affairs. Throughout her career, she has been a staunch advocate for children, victims of domestic violence, and veterans.

Her transition from law to literature began with her debut book, The No-nonsense Guide to Divorce, released in 2020 by Rowman and Littlefield. Her next book, Children of Darkness and Light, Lori Vallow, Chad Daybell: A Story of Murderous Faith was released in September 2024.

Lori lives in Redmond, Oregon, with her husband and beloved pets. She has an adult daughter who always seemed proud that her mother wore combat boots. She's a quilt maker and podcast aficionado who adeptly integrates law, service, and the art of storytelling.

Questions? Contact lizg@deschuteslibrary.org