Client-centered work

We respect the dignity and autonomy of all public defender clients and strive to build a community of advocates committed to learning each client’s priorities in the representation and providing them the knowledge and information necessary to make informed decisions in their cases. While we strive to provide guidance, advice and assistance, we do so without seeking to impose our own judgments.

Culture

We recognize that culture—a set of values and assumptions shared and internalized by all members of an organization—drives the way we view our work, our clients and our role in the criminal justice system. We strive to build cultures that reinforce the importance of public defense and the dignity and humanity of those we serve.

Community

We strive to create a community where public defenders work together to strengthen their skills, invigorate their commitment, support and inspire one another and build peer relationships that provide guidance and motivation.

Cultural Competency

We are committed to ensuring that public defenders have the skills necessary to allow them to engage productively with the widely diverse constituencies with whom they work, including, but not limited to, race, ethnicity, income, gender, sexuality and citizenship status.

Equal justice

We value that everyone is treated fairly and represented by public defenders with the highest degrees of passion, courage and commitment to their clients, their communities and their profession.

Inspired Change

We value and promote public defenders who advocate for change to positively impact their clients and communities.