Defender Association of Philadelphia

Who We Are

The Defender Association of Philadelphia attorneys represent clients in adult and juvenile state courts, at civil and criminal mental health hearings, and as child advocates for children with open dependent petitions.

Pre-Entry Support: The Defender works in partnership with community groups and justice partners to support clients pre-trial. By helping individuals to keep their homes, jobs, and connection to social services and supports, the Defender team can achieve fair outcomes and support stronger, safer communities.

Re-Entry Programs: The Defender helps individuals successfully transition back to their communities following incarceration, through job training, social service programs, and other community-based solutions.

Criminal Justice Reform: The Defender leadership team works with justice partners and stakeholders to support policy changes to change the culture of mass incarceration. By working to end cash bail, reform probation/parole detainers, support successful diversion programs, and empower communities to play a more active role in the criminal justice process, we can fundamentally change our system to reduce racial disparities and end our over-reliance on incarceration.

Please Note: The Association has no power to appoint itself as legal counsel. The Court of Common Pleas and the Municipal Court of Philadelphia determine standards of indigence and make all counsel appointments for the Association.

The Association offers representation in expungement and record sealing to FORMER CLIENTS of the Association ONLY.

Who We Serve

Area(s): Philadelphia County

Income Guidelines

Must be low-income and indigent as determined by the Court of Common Pleas and the Municipal Court of Philadelphia.

Is this organization accessible by wheelchair?: No

Does this organization provide access for the hearing impaired?: No

Eligibility Restrictions

Must be a FORMER CLIENT of the Defender Association in a criminal proceeding.

Type of Help

This group provides the following types of services based on your legal needs and its resources:

• Full Legal Representation