On April 4, 2024, we’re celebrated 90 years of representing Philly’s adult citizens and 50 years serving children with a very special event at the Constitution Center. The Gala was a huge success, thanks to all the local leaders, current and former Defenders and honorees who filled the venue that night. A big thanks to all of the sponsors who made it possible for this celebration of 90 years of public defense in Philly, and for supporting our Next Generation of Philly Defenders Fund!
Check out just a few of the highlights below.
Since 1934, we have believed that poverty shouldn’t prevent access to justice. Everyone, regardless of income, deserves the highest quality legal counsel.
Chief Public Defender Keisha Hudson said the data proves traffic stops of Black men are down.
“If we are looking at the racial demographics of traffic stops in Philly, we are seeing huge racial disparities,” Hudson said. “We have miles to go, but this is incredible progress.”
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Philly’s ‘driving equity’ rules have drastically reduced police stops in the city
whyy.org
Since 2022, Philly cops have not been able to stop someone for an expired registration or broken taillight.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Chief Defender Keisha Hudson, of the Defender Association, said Philadelphia’s jails are not equipped to handle complicated and dangerous withdrawal cases.
“We lost two clients, in addition to Amanda Cahill, in the last year because of bench warrant detainer issues,” Hudson said. “The jail just was not prepared to treat this population.”
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Kensington committee scrutinizes cost, impact of Philly’s diversion programs at City Council hearing
www.kensingtonvoice.com
The committee wanted to know three things: how the city-funded programs are spending their money, how effective those programs have been, and whether they need to change.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Last week, we got together to spread some holiday cheer with fun activities like ugly sweater contests, Twin Day, and more! It was the perfect way to celebrate the season and enjoy time with our team.
Swipe through for a sneak peek at all the festive fun! ❄️
#PhillyDefenders #HolidayCheer #TeamFun #UglySweaterSeason #FestiveVibes
Dec 24
We had an amazing time connecting with our @philabarassociation colleagues at Tuesday’s Criminal Justice Section celebration! ✨
The highlight of the night? Presenting a special honor to our incredible partners at @preventionpointphiladelphia for their unwavering commitment to meeting the critical health needs of so many #PhillyDefenders clients. Your work inspires us every day! #Philly #phillyreform
Dec 20
✨ Super excited to partner with @preventionpointphiladelphia ✨
Each month, we’re teaming up to host Defender Day, offering FREE legal resources and info on expungements, probation terminations and more to those who qualify. 💼⚖️
Ready to learn more? Hit the link in our bio! Let’s make a difference together. 💪🏽 #CommunityJustice #DefenderDay #Expungement #LegalHelp #PhillyCommunity #kensington #Philly #phillynews #phillyphilly
Dec 19
It’s a Philly thing! 💪 😂
Huge thanks to all our public defenders who put in the work every single day.
Special shoutout to our very own
#PhillyDefender Mary Henin from the homicide unit for securing a NOT GUILTY verdict today! ⚖️ ✨
#JusticeServed #ProudMoment #philly #phillyeagles #phillymemes #publicdefense #publicdefenders #eagles #phillymemes #eaglesmemes #philly #phillyreels
Dec 16
Giving back to the community is what we love to do!💙Huge thanks to @nomo_foundation for letting us be part of the Winter Coat Giveaway & Expungement Clinic.
Need help with record clearing or probation termination? We’re here for you—book your appointment today! Link in bio. #CommunityFirst #ExpungementClinic #LegalHelp #GivingBack #nomofoundation #phillyreform #philly
Dec 16
Legal terms got you confused? Don’t worry, we’ve got you!
Today’s breakdown: Indictment🔍✨
Got a legal term you want us to explain next? Drop it in the comments! 👇
#LegalTips #StayInformed #LawSimplified #clientfocused #phillydefendees #Publicdefense #PApublicdefense #legalterms #Philly
Dec 12
Thrilled to partner with @nomo_foundation for this amazing Winter Coat Giveaway & Expungement Clinic! 🧥✨
Join us this Saturday at 9 AM for FREE hats, coats, scarves, delicious food, and valuable LEGAL ADVICE to help clear your record. Let’s make a difference together! 💪🏾❄️ #CommunityLove #GivingBack #ExpungementClinic
Dec 10
Must read: @phillyinquirer story about how Philly's dependency & #juvenilejustice systems can negatively impact our young people. Featuring #Phillydefenders Mimi Laver & Rebecca Mainor, who fight young people caught in this broken system.
A womb-to-prison pipeline threatens kids in the child-welfare system
A teen mom grew up in Philly’s child-welfare system. When she gave birth in juvenile detention, the system took her daughter.
ow.ly
#Philly has taken steps to address addiction and public safety, but we need to go further.
Chief Defender, Keisha Hudson just testified before @PHLCouncil on an effective alternative: diversion programs that connect people to treatment, not jail.⚖️✨
Testimony: Diversion Programs in Kensington
Philadelphia’s Chief Defender Calls for support services and other solutions to Kensington’s Addiction Crisis outside of the justice system
phillydefenders.org
@PhillyDefenders is a host site for our 2025 Community Engagement Fellowship! 🏢🙌🏾
Fellows will assist in coordinating the 10-week summer session of Junior Defenders, a student community education program.
Undergrad and grad students, apply by 2/28! https://blackdefender.org/community-engagement-fellowship/
🚨Office Closure Notice 🚨
Our office will be closed tomorrow, 2/14 due to detours for the Eagles parade🦅 and will also be closed on Monday, 2/17 in observance of President’s Day. We’ll resume regular business hours on Tuesday.