The New Jersey Office of the Public Defender (NJOPD) has established a new statewide Youth Defense Unit. The initiative aims to lower recidivism, increase public safety, and improve outcomes for young people involved in the juvenile justice system.
The Youth Defense Unit is led by Assistant Public Defender Michelle B. Callari, who has extensive experience in juvenile justice. This unit will operate independently within NJOPD and will focus on representing children in family court while coordinating best practices for youth defense throughout the state.
This development is part of NJOPD’s shift toward holistic defense, an approach that combines legal representation with support services addressing underlying issues such as mental health challenges, unstable housing, or barriers to education. By connecting young people to these services, the office seeks to reduce their chances of reentering the justice system and to enhance community safety.
Public Defender Jennifer Sellitti stated: “Strong youth defense is about solving problems, reducing crime, and keeping communities safe. When young people have skilled advocates who can connect them to school, counseling, and other community-based supports where they live, they are far less likely to reoffend. That’s how we build safer neighborhoods while protecting the rights of every child in New Jersey.”
The new unit aims to ensure consistent standards across the state and provide defenders with training focused on adolescent development and the unique needs of youth involved in the justice system. It will also act as a central point for training and collaboration among defenders.
Assistant Public Defender Michelle B. Callari said: “Last year, the Legislature and Governor made a commitment to ensure that every child charged in this state has access to a public defender, regardless of their family’s income. This new unit builds on that mandate. High-quality legal defense, paired with educational and community support, helps break the cycle of crime and set kids on a path to success.”
