The Justice Department's Office for Access to Justice (ATJ) marked National Public Defense Day by introducing the Public Defense Resource Hub (PD Hub), a comprehensive platform aimed at aiding individuals and organizations involved in public defense. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland expressed the Department's pride in supporting public defenders, emphasizing the importance of upholding the constitutional right to counsel as reaffirmed in the historic case of Gideon v. Wainwright.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco reflected on the previous year's National Public Defense Day Tour and highlighted the launch of the new PD Hub as a significant step in bolstering the efforts of public defenders nationwide. Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer reiterated the Department's dedication to enhancing public defense systems to address legal needs in communities across the nation.
The PD Hub offers a centralized approach to accessing resources, including funding information, toolkits, research, and advocacy materials, streamlining the support process for public defense stakeholders. ATJ Director Rachel Rossi emphasized the Hub's role in empowering public defenders and policymakers to provide quality legal representation to historically marginalized communities, promoting fairness and justice within the legal system.
Developed in response to engagement during various tours and engagements, including the National Law School Tour commemorating the 60th anniversary of Gideon v. Wainwright, the PD Hub aims to facilitate collaboration and innovation among public defenders and justice system stakeholders. The initiative seeks to enhance transparency in resource allocation, promote efficiency in accessing materials, and encourage increased support for public defense efforts.
The culmination of the National Law School Tour will take place on March 21 at Atlanta's John Marshall Law School, where Director Rossi will unveil the PD Hub and discuss the critical role of public defenders in shaping the future of public defense with law students.