The New Jersey Office of the Public Defender (NJOPD) has announced the creation of its Division of Engagement and Research. This new division will be led by Assistant Public Defender Jennifer Perez and aims to bring together public defenders, data scientists, legislative experts, and communications professionals. The goal is to gather, evaluate, and disseminate information that supports evidence-based practices, informs policy decisions, and amplifies the voices of those most impacted by New Jersey’s legal system.
Public Defender Jennifer Sellitti stated, “The Division of Engagement and Research is about putting public defenders at the center of conversations around New Jersey’s criminal, juvenile, child welfare, and mental health systems in an effort to advance common sense reforms that both improve public safety and outcomes for the people we serve.” She emphasized a holistic approach using robust data and communication strategies to advocate for meaningful change among stakeholders.
Assistant Public Defender Jennifer Perez highlighted the division's role: “The Division of Engagement and Research team is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between legal defense, legislative advocacy, and public perception.” She added that aligning data-driven insights with effective advocacy ensures that public defense remains a powerful tool for promoting necessary reforms.
This initiative reflects NJOPD’s commitment to addressing deep-rooted causes of criminal legal involvement. By fostering stronger community connections and understanding challenges better, the division aims to shape a future where public defense serves as a catalyst for positive change.
