Defender Retention and Sustainability

Public Defender offices across Pennsylvania are experiencing significant issues with employee retention. More than 70% of Public Defender employees have reported experiencing symptoms of vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, burnout, and moral injury. Public Defender offices can reduce turnover and increase sustainability by addressing the underlying causes of these sustainability indicators. 

Through data collection and analysis, PDAP’s PA Defender Retention and Sustainability Committee has identified correlations between these sustainability indicators and the most pervasive issues that affect Public Defenders. Through this report, the PA Public Defender Sustainability and Retention Committee recommends seven specific solutions.

Click here to check out the full report.