Orleans Public Defenders

Vision: Dignity . Justice . Hope .

Mission: We fight for our clients by providing excellent client-centered representation, reforming the system and partnering with the community.  

The Orleans Public Defenders (OPD) provides holistic, community-based representation for low income New Orleanians in Criminal District, Juvenile and Municipal Court in Orleans Parish. We represent thousands of people each year utilizing a client-centered defense model that puts the client first and takes a 360° approach to our advocacy and representation. We recognize our clients are unique individuals and work to address their needs both in the court and out. Our 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 more just New Orleans. OPD is committed to representation that respects the humanity and dignity of people navigating the criminal legal system.