FY 2027 Budget Testimony
The Defender Association’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget testimony details the resources needed to sustain high-quality legal representation while addressing the growing demands of the justice system.
Our budget proposal highlights the essential role public defenders play in protecting rights, reducing unnecessary incarceration, and connecting clients to critical services. It outlines the key investments in staff, infrastructure, and programs like early bail review, reentry support, and the Wellness Court initiative needed to promote more equitable outcomes across the city.
The Defender Association submits a detailed written budget testimony to City Council for the record. The testimony highlights Defender accomplishments and plans for the future, while detailing how we use our budget to achieve the best outcomes for clients.
Download the Testimony HereHere’s a summary of our FY27 budget proposal that breaks down our $5 million proposal by category.
| Investment Area | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Labor Costs (Union Obligations) | $2,034,000 | Keep pace with mandatory contractual obligations to our unionized attorneys and support staff |
| Operating Costs | $1,309,220 | Increases in rent, insurance, technology and representation costs |
| Immigration Legal Defense (PAIFUP) | $950,000 | Representation for residents facing deportation |
| Emergency Bail Hearings | $250,000 | Expand pretrial release program |
| Bridge Home Reentry | $125,000 | Sustain reentry services |
| Wellness Court Expansion | $400,000 | Scale diversion program citywide |
| TOTAL | $5,068,220 |
Why This Investment Matters:
Ensures high quality legal representation by supporting core operations, workforce stability, and rising costs.
Workforce & Scale:
534 staff, 84% unionized, serving 30,000+ clients annually across 216,000+ hearings.
Reducing Jail Population:
Programs like Emergency Bail Hearings and Early Bail Review reduce unnecessary detention and save public funds.
Wellness Court Expansion:
Diversion program preventing incarceration and connecting individuals to treatment and services.
Immigration Defense:
PAIFUP ensures representation, improves outcomes, and keeps families together.
Download the Summary Here
Video: Defender Testimony, April 28, 2026
On April 28, 2026, Chief Defender Keisha Hudson and other Defender leaders presented their FY 2027 budget proposal to City Council.
