PHILADELPHIA–The Defender Association of Philadelphia is proud to announce that the Honorable Judge Lydia Y. Kirkland, a distinguished member of Philadelphia’s legal community, has joined our Board of Directors. Judge Kirkland brings with her over 30 years of experience as a Municipal Court Judge, including her tenure as Supervising Judge of the Criminal Division, where she championed innovative approaches to justice and rehabilitation.
“We are honored and excited to have Judge Kirkland join the Board of Directors of the Defender Association of Philadelphia,” said Defender Board President Paul Hetznecker, “Judge Kirkland served the cause of justice during her three decades on the bench, while at the time serving as a mentor to the countless litigants, public defenders, assistant district attorneys and private lawyers who appeared before her. I am grateful that Judge Kirkland’s experience and knowledge will be in service of our mission as we move into the future.”
Throughout her career, Judge Kirkland has been a trailblazer in promoting alternatives to incarceration, creating programs that address the root causes of criminal behavior and prioritize treatment and support. Her forward-thinking leadership exemplifies the kind of systemic reform the Defender Association seeks to advance.
“We are thrilled to welcome Judge Kirkland to the Board” said Chief Defender Keisha Hudson. “Her decades of experience, knowledge of our court system, and leadership in pioneering alternatives to incarceration will be invaluable as we continue our fight for equity and justice.”
Judge Kirkland’s addition to the board represents a continued commitment by the Defender Association to draw on diverse expertise in our mission to advance justice and improve outcomes for Philadelphia’s most vulnerable residents.
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