Client centered defense is at the core of our work. To enhance representation and impact-- our connect with clients and the community doesn't start when we are assigned to represent a client in court, and it can't end when the case concludes. Facing heighten criminalization of cross over youth, those affected by both the family regulation and youth justice systems, and the media's constant degradation of communities of color, the destabilization of communities post COVID and the need to embrace these communities through avenues of engagement and activism, we sought to ensure the presence of people with lived experience in policy action and reform through grassroots empowerment initiatives. This is Gideon beyond the courtroom. This is WHAT defense looks like--WHY is it so important, HOW do we do it-- HOW do we fund it-- WHEN this becomes a priority in your practice everything about the way you represent a client will change.
