Author: 2010admin

Restorative Response Program

Posted on by 2010admin

[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1629824139227{background-color: #eeee22 !important;}”][vc_column][ultimate_heading main_heading=”LEARN ABOUT RESTORATIVE RESPONSE DAYS”]

During our special Community Engagement Week, you can complete your 8 hours within one or two days with one of our trusted community partners! Click here for more info.

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What is the Restorative Response Program?

Following the deaths of George Floyd and Walter Wallace, Philadelphia saw both widespread protest and significant civil unrest. The Restorative Response Program was established to create an alternative path to resolve approximately 700 of the arrests which occurred during this period. This program draws on the tenets of Restorative Justice and emphasizes community re-engagement over criminal punishment.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row equal_height=”yes”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Who Is Eligible?

Most people arrested in connection to the civil unrest which took place between 5/31-6/12 and 10/27-11/1 are eligible if they are accused of non-violent offenses.  Eligible Defender Association clients will be contacted by mail and by phone.

If you believe you or a loved one is eligible, but have not heard from an attorney please email restorativejustice@philadefender.org or call 267-765-5045 and leave a message with:

  • your name
  • date of birth
  • address
  • phone number
  • email address

An attorney will contact you promptly.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1616424856204{background-color: #eeeeee !important;}”][vc_column_text]

What Is the Process?

Step 1: Participants MUST COMPLETE a two-hour Educational Session to begin the program.

Step 2: Participants MUST SIGN the Restorative Response Program Acceptance Form found here. Forms can be returned by mail, email, or to the Defender drop box (located at 1441 Sansom Street, open M-F 9:00 am – 4:00 pm).

Step 3: Once you have completed the 2-hour education session listed in Step 1, please choose a community re-engagement opportunity to complete 8-hours of programs. Participants MUST COMPLETE 8 additional hours of programming through one of the Community Re-engagement Opportunities listed below or through an approved outside organization.

Here is a timesheet for participants to use for tracking completed session hours.

Step 4: The Defender Association will provide the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office with proof of completion.  At the next court date (which will be held remotely and attended by attorneys only unless COVID protocols change), all charges will be dismissed and the case will be withdrawn.

Step 5: The Defender Association will ask the court to expunge the case from the participant’s record free of charge.  Fill out the Expungement Interview request form here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

What Will It Cost?

Participants who successfully complete the program will have all their court fines and costs waived.  Determinations about restitution have not yet been in the majority of cases.  It is possible the Commonwealth will request restitution from some individuals.  An attorney from the Defender will reach out to you to address any restitution issues if they arise.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1616426598707{background-color: #eeeeee !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]

[ps2id id=’education-session’ target=”/] Step 1: Educational Session Sign Up

All Participants MUST COMPLETE a 2-hour educational session (either virtual OR in-person) before moving forward in the program. Sign up for any one of the sessions below.

If you have already completed the 2-hour educational session with Rev Donna Jones, Tara, and Kavita, skip this and please go down to the next step (Community Re-engagement Opportunities)[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]

Restorative Response Program Virtual Education Sessions: 

[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=”yes” gap=”20″ disable_element=”yes”][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][dt_button link=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/restorative-response-education-session-august-12-tickets-161714647865″ target_blank=”true” button_alignment=”center”]Thursday, August 12 – 2 to 4 p.m.[/dt_button][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][dt_button link=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/restorative-response-education-session-august-19-tickets-161715259695″ target_blank=”true” button_alignment=”center”]Thursday, August 19 – 6 to 8 p.m.[/dt_button][vc_empty_space height=”10px”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row disable_element=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1621973105132{background-color: #eeeeee !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]

In-person Sessions:

Saturday May 22, 10am – 12pm (West Philly):
Malcolm X Park, 51st & Pine Streets

[/vc_column_text][dt_button link=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/restorative-response-education-west-philly-may-22-tickets-150262494165″ target_blank=”true” button_alignment=”center”]Register Here[/dt_button][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

[ps2id id=’community-opportunity’ target=”/] Step 3: Community Re-engagement Opportunities

Once you have completed the 2-hour education session listed in Step 1, please choose a community re-engagement opportunity to complete 8-hours of programs.

Click on the category name to see a list of organizations and opportunities. You can also download a printable directory of organizations and re-engagement opportunities here. 

As you complete your community re-engagement activities, track your hours using this timesheet. [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row”][vc_column][vc_tta_tour shape=”square” color=”blue” active_section=”1″][vc_tta_section i_type=”typicons” i_icon_typicons=”typcn typcn-group-outline” add_icon=”true” title=”Restorative Justice Training & Circles” tab_id=”1616788284712-65b3c6a7-e87b”][vc_column_text]MCCP Restorative Cities Initiative – Restorative Justice Training & Circles (6 hours) + 2 Circles (2 hours) = 8 hours total

Location: In-person, at various locations around the city 

Contact:
Terry King
609-923-5419
info@mccpphilly.org

Time: Trainings are held 9 AM – 4 PM (6 hour day with 1-hour lunch break)

Once you have completed this training, you will sign up for 2 additional hours of Restorative Justice circles to complete your requirements for your case.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section i_icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-child” add_icon=”true” title=”Parenting Support/Classes” tab_id=”1616788284782-3e2ded19-af19″][vc_column_text]Dear Black Fathers – Support Group for Fathers
Location: Virtual
Contact: Mabari Byrd, dearblackfathers@gmail.com

Dear Black Fathers – Math group for parents supporting children in grades K-8
Location: Virtual
Contact: Mabari Byrd, dearblackfathers@gmail.com

IDAAY – Young Fathers United parenting program (with stipend)
Location: 2305 North Broad St. 19132
Contact: Archye Leacock, aleacock@idaay.org, 215-901-6976

Maternity Care Coalition – Parenting class for parents with children under 5
Location: Virtual
Contact: Marci Mathew, mmathew@maternitycarecoalition.org, 267-773-5119

.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section i_icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-users” add_icon=”true” title=”Mentoring/Peer Support Groups” tab_id=”1616788630245-5b6f4668-09b3″][vc_column_text]Broad Street Ministry – Peer Support Group
Location: 315 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Contact: Michael McKee, michael@broadstreetministry.org, 215-735-4847 ext 116

Institute for Community Justice @ Phila Fight – Peer Support through Mannup program
Location: 1207 Chestnut St., 2nd floor Philadelphia, PA 19107
Contact: Mike Butler, mbutler@fight.org

Frontline Dads – Mentoring
Location: 410 N 34th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Contact: Reuben Jones, frontlinedads@aol.com

Mothers In Charge – Mentoring Program
Location: 2839 W. Girard Ave. 1st Floor, 19130
Contact: Dr. Dorothy Johnson-Speight, momsforpeace@aol.com

New Leash on Life – Life Skills/Career Readiness/Restorative Justice workshop (6 hours) + access to Community Free Pet Food Pantry
Location:  4326 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA. 19124
Time: Mondays 9am-3pm, June 21-September 21
Pet food Pantry: every 3rd Monday of each month 10am-11am.
Contact:  rob@newleashonlife-usa.org and jenna@newleashonlife-usa.org or sign up here: https://www.newleashonlife-usa.org/ under the “GET INVOLVED” section.[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section i_icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-handshake-o” add_icon=”true” title=”Employment & Education Support” tab_id=”1617371705939-3b9e0525-69ad”][vc_column_text]Impact Services – employment support, including work readiness workshops, job referrals, vocational training (such as automotive, construction, and HVAC), connection with benefits, and access to other resources
Location: Could be virtual or in-person in Kensington, based on specific interests
Contact: Pending (Please check back)

Impact Services – training in real estate development and creation of generational wealth
Location: Kensington area
Contact: Jon Arrieta, jarrieta@impactservices.org

Impact Services Launch Code program – computer coding apprenticeship for adults – Starts in June
Location: Pending
Contact: Pending (Please check back)

E3 (Employment, Empowerment, and Education) – Professional Boot Camp, including resume workshop, job application/job referral support, and possible professional certifications
Location: Virtual
Contact: Jamier Jones, jamier.jones@temple.edu

[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section i_icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-life-ring” add_icon=”true” title=”Trauma Support” tab_id=”1616788769270-7d99a731-bb17″][vc_column_text]Sankofa Healing Studio – Trauma specific group therapy
Location: virtual
Contact: Jacqui Johnson, therapy@SankofaHealingStudio.org[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section i_icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-apple” add_icon=”true” title=”Food/Clothing Distribution” tab_id=”1616789147380-419bebef-4739″][vc_column_text]Chosen 300 – Food distribution
Location: 3959 Lancaster Ave Philadelphia, PA 19104 OR 1116 Spring Garden Street Philadelphia, PA 19123
Time: see link here
Contact: Brian Jenkins, brianjenkins@chosen300.org

Hope 4 Every Living Person – Food distribution
Location: Victory Outreach Church 735 Westmoreland St. PA 19134
Time: Wed 11am-4pm
Contact: Contact: Pastor Joseph Bishop, pastorjoseph@hope4everylivingperson.org, 267-339-4190

IDAAY – Food distribution (must be able to lift 30 lbs)
Location: 2305 North Broad St. 19132
Time: Sat 9am-3pm
Contact: Archye Leacock, aleacock@idaay.org, 215-901-6976

Philadelphia Auto & Parole – Food distribution
Location: Southwest Philly, 19143
Contact: Jermaine Womack, phillysautoandparole@yahoo.com, 267-255-8834

Frontline Dads – Food distribution
Location: 410 N 34th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Contact: Reuben Jones, frontlinedads@aol.com

Mothers In Charge – Food distribution
Location: 2839 W. Girard Ave. 1st Floor, 19130
Contact: Dr. Dorothy Johnson-Speight, momsforpeace@aol.com

Bible Way Baptist – Food/clothing distribution
Location: 1323 North 52nd Street, 19131
Contact: Rev. Dr. Damone Jones and Rev. Dr. Donna Jones, poimen77@aol.com, djones@mccpphilly.org

Why Not Prosper – food distribution
Location: 717 E Chelten Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19144
Time: Monday and Tuesday
Contact: Rev. Michelle Simmons, whynotprosper@aol.com, 610-716-1113

Broad Street Ministry – Food, clothing, and hygiene kit distribution
Location: 315 S Broad Street, Phila PA 19107
Time: Mon-Fri, 1030-2pm
Contact: Sign-up at https://broadstreetministry.volunteerhub.com/events/index#_=_
Or Contact Michael@broadstreetministry.org, 215-735-4847 ext 116[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section i_icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-recycle” add_icon=”true” title=”Community Clean-up” tab_id=”1616789439759-f2456468-4c02″][vc_column_text]Impact Services – Community Clean Up
Location: Kensington Area
Time: every other Saturday in April/May
Contact:  Jon Arrieta, jarrieta@impactservices.org

First Stop Recovery – yard clean up
Location: 2414 Kensington Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125
Contact: Frank Aikens, frankaikens7@gmail.com, 267-600-7305

Institute for Community Justice @ Phila Fight – community restoration with Mannup program
Location: 1207 Chestnut St., 2nd floor Philadelphia, PA 19107
Contact: Mike Butler, mbutler@fight.org

Bible Way Baptist – church custodial work
Location: 1323 North 52nd Street, 19131
Contact: Rev. Dr. Damone Jones and Rev. Dr. Donna Jones, poimen77@aol.com, djones@mccpphilly.org 

Why Not Prosper  – community clean up and restoration
Location: 717 E Chelten Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19144
Contact: Rev. Michelle Simmons, whynotprosper@aol.com, 610-716-1113

Village of Arts and Humanities  – neighborhood beautification
Location: 2544 Germantown Avenue, 19133 (Germantown and Lehigh areas)
Time: two 4-hour shifts
Contact: Michaela Pommells, Michaela@villagearts.org

Village of Arts and Humanities  – Farm area cleanup and planting
Location: 2544 Germantown Avenue, 19133 (Germantown and Lehigh areas)
Time: two 4-hour shifts
Contact: Michaela Pommells, Michaela@villagearts.org[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section i_icon_fontawesome=”fa fa-building-o” add_icon=”true” title=”Office Assistance for Nonprofits” tab_id=”1616789723674-d48939fe-7f44″][vc_column_text]People’s Paper Coop – 2021 Mama’s Day Bailout – Help organize, sort, pack, ship, and scan artwork, or help fold and cut handmade paper made from criminal records
Location: 19143
Time: two 4-hour shifts or one 8-hour shift
Contact: Courtney Bowles, courtney@villagearts.org

Hope 4 Every Living Person – Packing door hangers
Location: Victory Outreach Church 735 Westmoreland St. PA 19134
Time: Thursdays
Contact: Pastor Joseph Bishop, pastorjoseph@hope4everylivingperson.org, 267-339-4190

PAR Recycle Works – Sorting, deconstructing, loading and unloading recyclables
Location: 2024 W Hunting Park Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19140
Contact: Maurice Jones, mqjones@par-recycleworks.org, 267-335-5455

IDAAY – distribute health department flyers (requires walking long distances)
Location: 2305 North Broad St. 19132
Time: Sat 9am-3pm
Contact: Archye Leacock, aleacock@idaay.org, 215-901-6976

Philadelphia Unemployment Project – Call center services for unemployed individuals
Location: Virtual
Contact: Andrew Lee, alee@philaup.org

Valley Youth House – packing bags
Location: 1500 Sansom St.
Contact: Alyssa Weinfurtner, aweinfurtner@valleyyouthhouse.org

Mothers In Charge – clerical services
Location: 2839 W. Girard Ave. 1st Floor, 19130
Contact: Dr. Dorothy Johnson-Speight, momsforpeace@aol.com

PA Prison Society – learning about PPS’s work and responding to letters from incarcerated individuals
Location: 230 S Broad St #605, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Contact: Kristin Cornnell, kcornnell@prisonsociety.org

Philadelphia Citywide Coalition Project (PCCP) – Pop-Up Community Resource Centers – assist citizens at resource tables and through door-to-door information sharing about unemployment, voter registration, property sales, business planning, and other resources. (NOTE: There is a required 2-hour volunteer training that counts toward your total community engagement hours.)
Location: Various (Nicetown/Tioga, North Philly, Susquehanna, Fairhill, Allegheny West, West Philadelphia, Point Breeze, Port Richmond, Overbrook, Strawberry Mansion, Poplar, Logan)
Time: Begins June 1st, Various Shifts (8 AM-12 PM, 2 PM-4 PM, 4 PM-8 PM, 8 PM-12 AM)
Contact: info_pccp@aol.com or 215-839-6130 with your name, message, and email address[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][vc_tta_section i_type=”material” i_icon_material=”vc-material vc-material-directions_run” add_icon=”true” title=”Assisting Youth Sports” tab_id=”1616789944660-a9c5f89a-14d9″][vc_column_text]Rebuilding a Village Foundation – coaching girls’ basketball (requires PA child abuse clearance)
Location: Shepard Recreation Center, 5700 Haverford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19131
Contact: Mustafa Clement, eclmnt@yahoo.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_tta_section][/vc_tta_tour][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Keir Bradford-Grey to Step Down As Chief Defender

Posted on by 2010admin
PHILADELPHIA–Keir Bradford-Grey will be stepping down from her role as Chief Defender. Bradford-Grey announced her resignation in a letter to the Defender Association’s Board of Directors on March 15.
 
Bradford-Grey began her legal career at the Defender, where she worked from 1999 to 2007. She returned to lead the organization in 2015. In her resignation letter, she recounted some of the highlights of her tenure as Chief Defender, including success in redefining the role of public defenders, and efforts to empower communities to play an active role in justice system reform.
 
“Over time, we have changed the function and the narrative of how our work contributes to enhanced public safety–evolving what had historically been a reactive role to our criminal justice system into an expanded service, with a proactive role in our justice practices,” she wrote. 
 
“The Defender’s mission has always been to provide the best representation for our clients. Keir greatly enhanced that mission during her time as Chief Defender,” said Paul Hetznecker, President of the Defender Association’s Board of Directors, “Thanks to Keir, the Defender Association has been able to establish an unprecedented collaboration with the community, one of the keys to real criminal justice reform.”
 
During her tenure as Chief, the Defender Association forged closer working relationships with City leaders, providing insights on effective strategies for justice system reform. She writes, “These efforts have gained us the respect and value we deserve from our funders, who supported and increased our budget to allow us to develop our presence in multiple areas of growth, from our national profile to our local community service.”  
 
Hetznecker: “Thanks to Keir’s tireless efforts, the Defender has been able to secure much-needed financial support and achieve increased recognition for the outstanding representation of indigent clients provided by Defender lawyers and staff.”
 
Keir Bradford-Grey’s last day as Chief Defender will be April 15, 2021. First Assistant Defender Alan Tauber will serve as the Interim Chief Defender while the Board conducts a national search for the next Chief Defender.
 
# # #

News Coverage: After 68 years, America’s Oldest Juvenile “Lifer” is Free

Posted on by 2010admin

[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1613754824176{background-color: #eeeeee !important;}”][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Through the work of the Defender’s Bradley Bridge, Joe Ligon, the world’s oldest juvenile lifer is now free. His amazing story has caught national and worldwide attention, putting a big spotlight on the need to end over-incarceration.

Here’s just a sampling of the news coverage, beginning with the Philadelphia Inquirer:

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]

PHOTOGRAPHER: Jessica Griffin

The nation’s oldest juvenile lifer, Joe Ligon, left a Pa. prison after 68 years

-by Samantha Melamed-

He won release through a legal maneuver that has given hope to hundreds of other juvenile lifers all serving lifetime parole.

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Washington Post:

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CNN:

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New York Post:

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Daily Mail:

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Yahoo News:

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More to come!

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Keir Bradford-Grey on Dismissal of Charges Against Khasandra Franklin

Posted on by 2010admin
All charges against Khasandra Franklin, who was arrested last fall after a minor traffic incident, will be dropped.
 
PHILADELPHIA–“On behalf of the Defender Association of Philadelphia, I want to commend Attorney General Josh Shapiro for dismissing the charges brought against Khasandra Franklin by the Philly DA’s office. Shapiro’s actions serve as a shining example of the thoughtful, considered approach that should be adopted by our District Attorney’s Office before needlessly exposing more Black people to the negative lifelong effects of our justice system.
 
“Had this case gone to trial, our theory of the case would have been that, but for having the misfortune of offending someone who has power and privilege, Ms. Franklin would have never faced criminal charges. She would have never have had her car towed, much less been brought into the justice system, where she spent a night in jail. From the outset, AG Shapiro recognized this case for what it was and reduced the charges from the original felonies to misdemeanors. 
 
“I speak often on how we, as justice practitioners, need to slow down and ask more questions on the front end before permanently upending their lives by saddling them with a criminal record. Today’s decision by Josh Shapiro gives me hope that there are justice system leaders who are committed to that kind of change.”

# # #

Probation Termination

Posted on by 2010admin

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The Defender offers probation termination services for clients:

To be eligible, clients MUST BE COMPLIANT with their probation conditions, including:

  • Regularly reporting to their probation officer,
  • Attending any recommended treatment,
  • paying fines and cost (if they are able)

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INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPLYING FOR PROBATION TERMINATION

  • Fill out the questionnaire below to the best of your ability. If you’re unsure how to answer a question, leave it blank. Your Police Photo Number (PP) & Name & Telephone Number of your Probation Officer are REQUIRED.
  • Please discuss probation termination with your Probation Officer. We will reach out to them for a recommendation for your early termination.
  • Early Termination of Probation Petitions takes time to be researched, drafted, and to be filed with your Judge. PLEASE GIVE US 4 to 6 WEEKS BEFORE YOU BEGIN CALLING US.
    • If you had a Private Attorney (Petitioner can file the petition themselves at CJC, 13th & Filbert Street,2nd Floor at the Motion’s desk (For A Fee) or have Private Attorney file on your behalf. If you can no longer afford a Private Attorney, you must see your judge to have the Defender Association appointed.
    • If you had a Court Appointed Attorney we must research your case for potential conflicts. Our office will call if we are NOT able to submit a petition for you.
  • PLEASE LIMIT CALLS TO THE DEFENDER during the process. Petitions can take up to 6 or more months to be determined. Our office will only call you if we have any further questions to ask about your termination and/or with the Judge’s decision and/or Court Date regarding your pending Petition.
  • Please fax copies of Certificate of Completed Program/s, Letter of Recommendations, Awards, etc. to Mrs. Rivera at: 267-765-6976

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Keir Bradford-Grey Remembers Thurgood Matthews

Posted on by 2010admin
Thurgood Matthews was with the Defender for over 40 years and was the head of the Special Defense Unit. He passed away on November 20. Read more about Thurgood here. 
 
PHILADELPHIA–“It is with great sadness and extreme difficulty that I write to inform you of the passing of one of the Defender Association of Philadelphia’s most beloved family members, Thurgood Matthews. Our most heartfelt sympathies go out to Thurgood’s family members and especially our Defender colleague, Thurgood’s daughter, Keisha Matthews. 

“Words cannot describe what the loss of a legal giant like Thurgood Matthews means to our legal community.  The Defender Association was fortunate to have a lawyer of such great distinction dedicate his career to enhancing the standards of excellent representation. He instilled a sense of pride in so many professionals within the Association to remind us how much of an honor it was to work on behalf of communities fighting for their civil rights.   

“The contributions Thurgood made to the legal profession are both numerous and monumental.  Those of us who had the privilege of being guided and mentored by him have, and will continue to benefit tremendously from his sharp, intellectual trial instincts, which were second to none.

“He touched our lives in so many ways. He was a great friend and confidant. His wise counsel and sharp wit often transformed simple conversations into intellectual life lessons. He combined humor with frank honesty in a way that made us keep coming back for repeated doses of his wisdom.

“Thurgood Matthews was the epitome of what it means to be a defender. He was a fierce advocate, quick to attack those who stepped out of the bounds of ethics of our profession. He was well-respected by his opponents, who feared his ire if they dared to discharge their duties with anything but honor and dignity. He truly raised the bar, and I am privileged and honored that I had the opportunity to enhance and hone my craft under his mentorship. But most of all, I am blessed to call him my friend and family.  

“There are certain people who can never be replaced, but whose legacies will live on through our efforts to enhance the quality and standards of our practice and culture. Thurgood Matthews is one of those people. He was loved and will be tremendously missed.” 
 
# # #

Case & Court Status

Posted on by 2010admin

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Look Up Your Case |  Courtroom & Attorney Info  |  Additional Resources & Info

[/ultimate_heading][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”64px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_heading main_heading=”What to Know If You Have an Open Case During the Pandemic” main_heading_style=”font-weight:bold;” main_heading_font_size=”desktop:20px;”]

Click here to download this flyer for information and guidance on how to navigate the system if you have an open case. 

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[ps2id id=’lookupcase’ target=”/]Look Up Your Case

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If you have an open case, please find public docket information at: https://ujsportal.pacourts.us/CaseSearch

Then, use the spreadsheet below to locate your scheduled courtroom and attorney contact information. 

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[ps2id id=’courtinfo’ target=”/]Courtroom and Attorney Info

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Use the table below to see the latest information on how each courtroom is handling hearings.

If you or a loved one have a court date for any of the listed courtrooms, please reach out directly to the attorney assigned to your case. If you have not been assigned a specific attorney name or are unsure, please contact the department heads listed below, and they can assist you with the specific details of your case.

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[ps2id id=’moreinfo’ target=”/]More Info and Resources

Click the buttons below for additional information to help prepare for your case

[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” gap=”10″][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″ css=”.vc_custom_1629822931066{margin-top: 10px !important;margin-right: 10px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;margin-left: 10px !important;}”][dt_button link=”https://www.phillydefenders.org/client-interview/” button_alignment=”center”]SCHEDULE AN INTERVIEW WITH A DEFENDER[/dt_button][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″ css=”.vc_custom_1629822957341{margin-top: 10px !important;margin-right: 10px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;margin-left: 10px !important;}”][dt_button link=”https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTmrOw7OOGE1krlfBSNfZKshvPhzlZYTe9GdeBLA3lJ10WJIUdP5A6u8mFv49SkTHBbSLlifa02lUbl/pub” button_alignment=”center”]FIND A PARTICIPATORY DEFENSE HUB NEAR YOU[/dt_button][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″ css=”.vc_custom_1629822980856{margin-top: 10px !important;margin-right: 10px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;margin-left: 10px !important;}”][dt_button link=”https://phillydefenders.org/expungement” button_alignment=”center”]EXPUNGEMENT REQUESTS[/dt_button][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner gap=”10″][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1629822996777{margin-top: 10px !important;margin-right: 10px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;margin-left: 10px !important;}”][dt_button link=”https://phillydefenders.org/probation-termination” target_blank=”true” button_alignment=”center”]PROBATION TERMINATION REQUEST[/dt_button][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1629823013780{margin-top: 10px !important;margin-right: 10px !important;margin-bottom: 10px !important;margin-left: 10px !important;}”][dt_button link=”https://phillydefenders.org/kys” target_blank=”true” button_alignment=”center”]KNOW YOUR JUSTICE SYSTEM[/dt_button][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1607529625825{background-color: #0367bf !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Status of the Philly Courts

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]Appearance at Hearings:

On your docket sheet, you can locate the date and courtroom for your next hearing.  Please note that depending on court restrictions that are constantly changing, some hearings have been happening in person, some virtually online, and some have been rescheduled without an update on the docket sheet.  

Please be in touch with the Defender as shown below or call the courts in advance if you are unsure what you should do.  If you do not appear for a hearing when required, the judge may issue a “bench warrant” for your arrest.  Additional notes and Defender contact information can be found in the table below.

Public Access:

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, courts have been mostly to the public and having hearings “by appointment only.” At this time, there is still very limited remote access for family members and supporters to attend court events online.  

For the majority of scheduled events, there is no way for the public to gain access, either in person or remotely. Please request access for family, friends, and supporters through your defense attorney 72 hours in advance.

Please remember that the judges, not our attorneys, decide which family/friends can attend the hearings. If the judge allows supporters to attend in person, they may have to view the hearing on TV in a different courtroom.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1607452374601{background-color: #0367bf !important;}”]

Types of Hearings

[/vc_column_text][ultimate_heading main_heading=”Bail Hearings” main_heading_color=”#2237d6″ alignment=”left” main_heading_font_size=”desktop:20px;” main_heading_line_height=”desktop:30px;” main_heading_margin=”margin-top:15px;margin-bottom:15px;” main_heading_style=”font-weight:bold;”]If your loved one was recently arrested, they will have a Preliminary Arraignment, or Bail Hearing, in the first 24 hours.  Please note the following:

  • Your loved one is at the police district and appears through CCTV for the bail hearing. There is no public access to the bail hearing.
  • If you have any information that could help, please call the court at 215-683-7283 and ask to speak to the Public Defender there.
  • Please give the Defender any information about employment, school, health, family life, or other responsibilities that would help us make a strong case for release from custody.

[/ultimate_heading][ultimate_heading main_heading=”MC Hearings” main_heading_color=”#2237d6″ alignment=”left” main_heading_font_size=”desktop:20px;” main_heading_line_height=”desktop:30px;” main_heading_margin=”margin-top:15px;margin-bottom:15px;” main_heading_style=”font-weight:bold;”]If your docket number starts with “MC” please note the following:

  • Courts are now scheduling MC trials.
  • Due to pandemic-related challenges and jail policies, people in custody may experience delays in hearings and trials.
  • If you have been assigned a public defender by the court, click here to schedule an interview with our office so that we have the information we need to defend you. 
  • MC Preliminary Hearings are generally taking place in person. Please make sure you have scheduled an interview (link) well in advance of your Preliminary Hearing so that we are prepared for the hearing.  Please discuss your case and whether it will be in person or virtual with our office prior to the scheduled date. Please make sure we have up-to-date contact information for you. There are very long delays in scheduling Preliminary Hearings because of strict limits on how many hearings can be safely held each day, and the priority is for people who are in custody.
  • Family members and support people who also want to attend scheduled hearings can request access to the hearing through the defendant’s attorney, at least 24 hours in advance, and a judge will decide whether family/friends can attend the hearings.

[/ultimate_heading][ultimate_heading main_heading=”CP Hearings” main_heading_color=”#2237d6″ alignment=”left” main_heading_font_size=”desktop:20px;” main_heading_line_height=”desktop:30px;” main_heading_margin=”margin-top:15px;margin-bottom:15px;” main_heading_style=”font-weight:bold;”]If your docket number starts with “CP” please note the following:

  • CP hearings and trials are prioritized for those who are in custody. However, there may be delays due to pandemic-related challenges or jail policy. 
  • The courts are now open for jury and non-jury trials. Contact your attorney now to make sure you’re ready for trial.
  • While the pandemic has created some uncertainty, jury trials for those out of custody will most likely take place in 2022. Please make sure your attorney can reach you in case of changes to the court schedule.
  • Please keep in consistent contact with your assigned attorney to make sure they know how to contact you about the court’s changing requirements and to provide any new information or ask questions about your case.
  • Public access to many courtrooms is limited. Those interested in attending jury trials must contact the defense attorney at least 72 hours prior to the court date to be placed on a list to gain access to a viewing room or the courtroom.  Public attendance is decided by a judge on a case by case basis.

[/ultimate_heading][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Additional Notes:

  • If you are dealing with an issue related to a probation hearing, parole hearing, or detainer or Gagnon hearing, please contact Byron Cotter (bcotter@philadefender.org or 267-765-6565) or Victoria Sanita (vsanita@philadefender.org or 267-765-6724).
  • If you are aware that your case is part of the city’s Group Violence Intervention (GVI) plan, please contact Rachel Echemendia at rechemendia@philadender.org 
  • If you are aware that your case is part of Project Dawn, please contact Anna Shapiro at ashapiro@philadefender.org.

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Keir Bradford-Grey on the Passing of Amber M. Racine

Posted on by 2010admin

PHILADELPHIA–“On behalf of the Defender Association of Philadelphia, I want to extend my deepest condolences to the family of Amber M. Racine, whose passing we are all mourning today.  

“Amber Racine was more than a brilliant lawyer. She was committed to the idea that communities of color need and deserve quality legal representation. As the president of the Barristers, she consistently demonstrated this commitment in her pro-bono legal work for those who couldn’t otherwise afford an attorney.   

“I and others who knew and were inspired by Amber Racine will honor her memory and legacy by continuing to represent the marginalized communities she cared so deeply for.”  

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