NAPD Public Resources

The National Association for Public Defense (NAPD) commends Kira Fonteneau for her impactful leadership of the public defense office in Birmingham, Alabama, where she has implemented significant reforms such as timely bail hearings and the introduction of free communication for clients. NAPD emphasizes the necessity of maintaining the independence of public defense, focusing on the recruitment and training of effective attorneys, and fostering community involvement to enhance the quality of justice in Jefferson County.

NAPD expresses its readiness to support the local advisory board in developing standards and selecting new leadership if needed, advocating for a careful and thoughtful approach to future transitions. They stress the importance of ongoing progress in public defense, regardless of changes in leadership, to ensure that the community's needs are met effectively.