Defense Reimagined: Community Power, Collective Safety, and the Future of Public Defense

The National Legal Aid & Defender Association (NLADA), in collaboration with the Cook County Public Defender's Office, is hosting the Spring 2026 American Council of Chief Defenders (ACCD) training titled "Defense Reimagined: Community Power, Collective Safety, and the Future of Public Defense." This event is scheduled for April 9-10, 2026, in Chicago, Illinois.

The training will focus on innovative models of community-rooted defense, highlighting Chicago's recent abolition of cash bail and the establishment of groundbreaking community defense centers. Participants will engage with community partners and explore approaches that enhance advocacy and foster a sense of belonging. The agenda will include discussions on the Sixth Amendment, client-centered representation, and strategies to transform public defense into a vehicle for community empowerment.

This immersive two-day gathering is designed exclusively for Chief Public Defenders and Deputy Chiefs. Attendees will have opportunities to network with peers, participate in strategic discussions, and gain actionable insights to implement within their jurisdictions. The event aims to provide a sanctuary for provocative discussion, a hub for strategic action, and a platform for renewed inspiration.

Chief Public Defenders and Deputy Chiefs are encouraged to attend to recharge, reconnect, and reimagine the future of public defense. The training offers a unique opportunity to witness innovative models in action, engage directly with community partners, and develop strategies that strengthen both advocacy and community ties.