California Public Defender Association

The California Public Defender Association (CPDA) is a professional organization that supports public defenders across California. Public defenders are lawyers assigned to represent individuals who cannot afford legal representation in criminal cases. The CPDA provides resources, training, and advocacy to enhance the quality of public defense, ensuring fair legal representation for all, regardless of financial status. It also promotes policies and reforms aimed at improving the criminal justice system. By empowering public defenders, the CPDA helps protect the rights of the accused and maintain a just legal process.