What is Holistic Defense?

Holistic defense is a client-centered approach to public defense that coordinates advocacy across legal and social systems. It recognizes that system involvement affects every part of an individual’s life from family, housing, employment and mental health.

Centering Client Goals


We identify what truly matters to our clients and align our defense strategies with their needs.


Beyond Legal Representation


Defenders collaborate across systems – criminal, family, immigration and civil – to understand how each affects our clients.


Addressing Root Causes


By acknowledging the social, economic, and personal factors that contribute to system contact, we help reduce future involvement.

At the Bronx Defenders, we go beyond traditional courtroom representation by addressing the root causes of system contact. Our defenders and social workers collaborate to understand each client’s goal and circumstances, ensuring that their legal and non-legal needs are met.

Watch video testimonials 1, 2, 3 of Bronx Defenders clients.