Defender Association of Philadelphia

06/18/2026

‼️Holiday Office Hours ‼️

06/09/2026

Philadelphia's proposed FY27 budget includes a $0 increase for public defense, making the Defender Association the only major criminal justice partner not slated to receive additional funding this year. If approved, we will be forced to reduce or eliminate participation in several court programs and services beginning July 1, including programs that help people access treatment, clear eligible records, reduce unnecessary incarceration, and keep our courts running efficiently. Read more:

The current budget will force the Defender Association to reduce programs that help people access treatment and improve public safety

06/08/2026

WATCH: Chief Defender Keisha Hudson joins Michael Coard for "Television Courtroom" to talk about this year's flat funding of the Defender Association.

Topic: The President’s House/Slavery Memorial

06/04/2026

Notably, the Defender Association is the ➡ONLY⬅ major justice system partner that did not receive a funding increase this year.

While the District Attorney’s Office, the Courts, and the Police Department ALL received ADDITIONAL funds, public defenders were left behind. This decision undermines the principle that every justice system stakeholder needs adequate resources to fulfill their duties.

Read More:

Statement from Chief Defender Keisha Hudson about the City's decision not to increase the Defender Association's FY 2027 budget.

06/03/2026

We’re looking for experienced Trial Attorneys committed to protecting the rights of our clients and advancing justice in our communities.

In this role, you’ll:
• Handle hearings, motions, waiver trials, jury trials, and probation violations
• Manage a complex felony caseload
• Interview and advocate for clients in the community and correctional facilities
• Work alongside attorneys, social workers, investigators, and support staff to provide holistic representation

What we’re looking for:
✔ Pennsylvania Bar member in good standing
✔ 3+ years of criminal defense experience
✔ Experience litigating complex felony cases
✔ Commitment to serving indigent clients and advancing justice

Apply today at phillydefenders.org/careers
Hiring

06/02/2026

Every day, Philly Defenders work alongside clients, families, and communities to create pathways to stability, opportunity, and justice.

These are just a few examples of the work made possible through public defense. From courtrooms to community spaces, we’re meeting people where they are and helping them move forward.

06/02/2026

Chief Defender Keisha Hudson joined "On the Record" with Ernest Owens on WURD Radio to talk public defense and the Philly Defender's annual budget request to PHLCouncil

05/29/2026

One in five Philadelphians will need a public defender at some point in their lives. Public defense is about more than courtrooms, it’s about protecting jobs, housing, families, immigration status, and opportunities for a fresh start.

In this FY27 Budget Breakdown, our CFO, Carolyn Jester, walks through the numbers behind public defense and why sustained investment matters. When public defense is underfunded, the impact goes beyond the justice system—it affects the health, stability, and well-being of entire communities.

Hit the link in our bio to read our full FY27 Budget Testimony.🔗

05/29/2026

Every day, children and families involved in Philadelphia’s dependency system are affected by decisions they often have little say in.

On May 27, Chief Defender Keisha Hudson and Defender Peer Advocate Duane Price testified before City Council in support of Councilmember At-Large Nina Ahmad's resolution creating a Philadelphia Child Welfare Commission — a permanent, independent body that centers accountability, transparency, and the voices of impacted youth and families.

Systems work best when the people most affected are treated not just as clients, but as partners in reform. Click the link below to read and watch the full testimony at Phillydefenders.org

https://phillydefenders.org/testimony-05272026/

May 28: Chief Defender Keisha Hudson testified with Peer Advocate Duane Price in favor of creating a Philadelphia Child Welfare Commission.

05/28/2026

Loving Drake’s new album art… but we think the cover hits harder when it stands for protecting people’s rights. 💿⚖️😂

Funding public defense means investing in fairness, due process, and communities that deserve to be seen, heard, and defended. Every person deserves access to justice — not just those who can afford it.

More funding means more advocacy, more support, and more people getting a real chance at coming home to their families. Philly deserves that. 💙