The Defender Association of Philadelphia is a non-profit legal organization that provides public defense services to individuals who cannot afford private attorneys in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Established in 1934, it is one of the oldest public defender offices in the United States. The organization represents clients in criminal cases, juvenile delinquency matters, mental health hearings, and parole/probation violations within the Philadelphia court system. The Association employs over 200 attorneys and support staff who handle approximately 70% of all criminal cases in Philadelphia. Their services are available to Philadelphia residents who meet specific income eligibility requirements as determined by federal poverty guidelines. The organization operates through various specialized units, including trial, appeals, juvenile, and mental health divisions. Beyond direct legal representation, the Defender Association engages in policy advocacy and reform initiatives aimed at improving the criminal justice system. They participate in various community outreach programs and collaborate with other organizations to address systemic issues in the criminal justice system. The organization also provides training programs for new attorneys and continuing legal education for experienced public defenders. The Defender Association of Philadelphia is funded primarily through city and state appropriations, ensuring that constitutional rights to counsel are upheld for Philadelphia’s indigent population.