Law Office of the Public Defender, Blair Allen

06/02/2026

This month we celebrate the strength, diversity, and individuality of the LGBTQ+ community. We remain committed to treating every individual with fairness, dignity, and respect. We are proud to serve and support a community built on inclusion, compassion, and justice for all.

05/27/2026

Please join us in welcoming our 2026 summer law school interns. These five law students will be gaining hands-on experience in criminal defense and serving our community alongside our dedicated team. Throughout the summer, they will have the opportunity to observe court proceedings, assist with case preparation, and learn firsthand what it means to advocate for clients and uphold the constitutional right to counsel.

We are excited to have them with us and look forward to helping shape the next generation of public servants. Welcome to the PD10 team!

05/25/2026

We take time today to remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.
Our office and the courthouse are closed in observance of Memorial Day.

05/21/2026

Last month, members of our office participated in the Better Together Second Chances Job Fair in Lakeland, helping facilitate check-in and support attendees. This event focused on individuals working to overcome barriers to employment, whether related to prior justice system involvement, housing instability, or other life circumstances. With 553 attendees and 107 job offers extended, it marked the largest in-person job fair hosted by Better Together.
We’re proud to support initiatives that create second chances and strengthen the communities we serve. Second chances matter and access to opportunity can change the direction of a life.

05/20/2026

Public Defender Blair Allen was honored to be appointed as a new Ambassador for Tri-County Human Services at this year’s Annual Fundraising Event. Blair shared about the very real mental health and substance use struggles faced by many individuals and families throughout Polk, Hardee, and Highlands Counties, and the importance of ensuring people have access to support and treatment.

For nearly 50 years, Tri-County Human Services has provided vital mental health and substance use treatment services throughout our community. This year’s dinner, featuring keynote speaker Mike Alstott, also highlighted the organization’s new capital campaign focused on developing affordable housing for families with children experiencing homelessness.

05/18/2026

Last month, during National Volunteer Week, members of our office and their families spent time volunteering with kidsPACK, helping pack meals for children in our community facing food insecurity.

Opportunities like this remind us that public service extends beyond the courtroom. We’re proud to support organizations making a direct impact in the lives of local families.

05/16/2026

Today we recognize the men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces. We thank them for their commitment, sacrifice, and dedication to our country.

05/15/2026

On May 14, 2026, Girls Inc. of Lakeland held its annual “She Knows Where She Is Going” luncheon, which celebrates exceptional women who serve as positive role models for girls and young women throughout our community. Girls Inc. makes a meaningful impact in our community by empowering young women through mentorship, encouragement, and opportunities to succeed. Events like this highlight the importance of strong community leaders and the positive influence they have on the next generation.

Congratulations to the outstanding women recognized for their personal and professional accomplishments, community spirit, and dedication to lifting others up. We are grateful for organizations like Girls Inc. and the work they do to inspire confidence, leadership, and opportunity for young women in our community.

05/14/2026

Public Defender Blair Allen was honored to join community members in support of The Roberts Academy at Florida Southern College and the incredible work being done for students with dyslexia and their families.

It was a wonderful afternoon celebrating mothers, advocating for children, and hearing from Henry Winkler about the importance of confidence, encouragement, and opportunity in education.

We love our moms, including those at Bank of Central Florida! What better way to celebrate than with our community?

Florida Southern College’s luncheon was a fantastic opportunity to connect and thank the mothers in our lives for raising the next generation. With help from organizations like the Roberts Academy, mothers can guide gifted students with dyslexia to feel more confident in traditional classrooms.

To the most supportive women in our lives: we are so thankful for everything you do!

05/14/2026

Please join us in congratulating Assistant Public Defender Vanessa Valencia on her selection to Class XIV of the Wm. Reece Smith, Jr. Leadership Academy! 🎉

Selected from attorneys across the state, Academy fellows participate in a year-long program focused on preparing the next generation of leaders in Florida's legal community. We are proud to see Vanessa recognized for her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to leadership and public service.