The New Jersey Office of the Public Defender has appointed Lynette Renté as Assistant Public Defender to lead the Office of Parental Representation (OPR). Renté, who has been with the agency for over ten years, will oversee efforts to provide legal representation to parents and families involved in child welfare cases. Her role involves managing a team of attorneys across eight offices and advancing initiatives to ensure comprehensive advocacy for parents.
Public Defender Jennifer Sellitti stated, "Lynette’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for OPR – her leadership will ensure that OPR continues to provide comprehensive, compassionate, and person-centered legal services that empower parents to navigate the legal system and protect their families."
First Assistant Public Defender Robyn Veasey added, "I have had the privilege of working closely with Lynette over the years and have witnessed first-hand her unwavering dedication to fighting for fairness and justice, especially for parents who have been treated unfairly by our legal system."
Renté began her career with NJOPD in 2011 as an Assistant Deputy Public Defender in OPR's Northeast Region Office. She handled complex cases involving abuse, neglect, and guardianship matters filed by the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP). In 2022, she was promoted to Deputy Public Defender of OPR's Northeast Region.
"I am deeply honored to take on this new leadership role at a time when our office is focused on enhancing the way we serve families in crisis," Renté said. She emphasized continuing the vital work of advocating for parents' rights alongside her colleagues statewide.
Beyond her legal career, Renté has contributed significantly to diversity and inclusion within the legal field. She participates actively in Rutgers’ Minority Student Program and often returns to Rutgers Law School to mentor future public defenders.
