Every client comes to us with a story, a life outside the courtroom, and often challenges that can make navigating the legal system difficult. The Engagement Division helps clients navigate those challenges while supporting them throughout their legal journey.
Our case managers and social workers support adults and juveniles represented by the Public Defender’s Office through consultation, mental health and social service coordination, competency restoration, mental health representation, and jail release planning. Our team works closely with attorneys, particularly in mental health and competency cases, to help clients engage in treatment, access services, and meaningfully participate in their defense.
Our team meets clients where they are. That may mean meeting with someone in jail, helping coordinate a safe release, connecting a client with treatment or community services, or helping with basic needs such as food, clothing, transportation, and other essential resources. We work closely with clients, attorneys, families, providers, and community partners to help create practical paths forward.
We believe effective defense means seeing the whole person, not just the charges they face, and helping ensure that each client has the support, resources, and opportunity to build a path forward.
