Each year, thousands of men, women, and children come into the criminal justice system. Too poor to afford an attorney, nearly 85% of the people who enter the criminal justice system in New Orleans are appointed a public defender.

Orleans Public Defender represent nearly 20,000 people each year utilizing a client-centered, community-oriented defense model that puts the client first and takes a 360 degree approach to our advocacy and representation. OPD recognizes our clients are unique individuals and work to address their needs both in the court and out.

OPD’s diverse staff includes adult and juvenile attorneys; social workers; client, youth and parent advocates; investigators and administrators all working together for equal justice for our clients, their families, our community and a better New Orleans.

In short, we protect innocence, defend the constitution, demand justice and hold power accountable.