The Bronx Defenders was founded on a simple premise – that our job is to reimagine what a public defender office can, and should do, for the people we represent.
The Bronx Defenders has developed a groundbreaking model of legal representation called HOLISTIC DEFENSE, which has proven to deliver better outcomes for people in the courtroom and beyond.
Defending New Yorkers
Each year, we defend nearly 20,000 Bronx residents in criminal, civil, family, and immigration cases, and reach thousands more through our community intake, social work, and community outreach programs.
Our proximity to the legal system and the experiences of the people we represent compel us to fight for fairness, justice, and equity beyond the courtroom. As a result, we work with people in the Bronx to identify systemic problems and leverage our collective expertise to develop long-term solutions.
We are committed to supporting and partnering with the communities we represent. By working in coalition with Bronx-based leaders, we are contributing skills, expertise, and resources to bring about a world where Bronx residents are free from harmful legal entanglement and able to thrive.
Every year, we mentor, train, and guide public defenders in New York City and beyond on our unique model of holistic defense through The Center for Holistic Defense, our flagship trial skills training program, Defenders Academy, and our various legal clinics.
I didn’t just bring this lawsuit for myself, but for every Black family that ACS has ripped apart. They know what they did was wrong. And now, they’re on notice.”
