The New Jersey Office of the Public Defender (NJOPD) has announced the induction of its largest new class of attorneys in the agency's 57-year history. A total of 51 attorneys have joined NJOPD, enhancing its capacity to serve across various legal domains including adult criminal defense, youth defense, parental representation, mental health advocacy, law guardian services, appellate work, and special hearings. These attorneys will be distributed across several counties such as Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Hudson, Mercer, Middlesex, Passaic, Salem, and Union.
NJOPD is recognized as the state's largest criminal defense law firm and represents over 70% of individuals charged with indictable offenses in Superior Courts throughout all 21 counties. The addition of these new lawyers aims to manage high caseloads effectively while maintaining a commitment to providing quality legal representation for New Jersey residents. Many of these new hires will focus on criminal defense—the agency’s largest practice area.
Governor Phil Murphy commented on this development by stating: "The men and women joining the Office of the Public Defender will play an important role in upholding justice and ensuring that every individual receives legal representation and a fair trial regardless of their financial situation or background." He expressed satisfaction at seeing many attorneys step forward to assist those navigating the criminal justice system.
Public Defender Jennifer Sellitti remarked on this milestone: “Welcoming our largest class of new attorneys marks a significant milestone for our office and strengthens our ability to provide every person we represent with the attention and curated services they deserve.” She acknowledged Governor Murphy's support in addressing historic understaffing issues that have previously challenged attorney retention efforts.
The newly inducted attorneys underwent a comprehensive week-long training program at NJOPD’s Trenton headquarters during the week of October 21. This training is part of a mandatory two-year curriculum designed to equip public defenders with essential skills for effective community service. NJOPD aims to empower these attorneys through rigorous training so they can navigate complex legal systems while advocating for equitable criminal justice outcomes.
Since her appointment by Governor Murphy on February 1st as Public Defender, Jennifer Sellitti has been focused on recruiting top-tier legal talent and ensuring robust support systems are in place for delivering high-quality legal representation across New Jersey.
