OPD's Criminal Defense Training Academy was designed to strengthen public defenders by providing fundamental skills development in an interactive, supportive learning environment. Each year's class is comprised of attorneys from various corners of the state, most of whom have two or fewer years of public defense experience. Using a variety of educational methods, participants learn, develop, and apply client-centered defense advocacy skills.

To graduate from the Academy, participants must attend five days of training. All class sessions include a combination of lecture and small group exercises.

OPD's Criminal Defense Training Academy was designed to strengthen public defenders by providing fundamental skills development in an interactive, supportive learning environment. Each year's class is comprised of attorneys from various corners of the state, most of whom have two or fewer years of public defense experience. Using a variety of educational methods, participants learn, develop, and apply client-centered defense advocacy skills.

To graduate from the Academy, participants must attend five days of training. All class sessions include a combination of lecture and small group exercises.

• 2023 Session Materials

2023 Spring Graduates:

2023 Fall Graduates:

Previous Graduates