NAPD Leadership Legal Aid 2026: Full Schedule

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9:00am EDT

Engaging the Community and Leading from all Angles

Friday July 17, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

This session equips public defender leaders with practical strategies and examples for building robust, mutually beneficial relationships with the communities their offices serve. Participants will learn how to shift from reactive communication to proactive, trust-based engagement that enhances service delivery, informs policy advocacy, and ultimately improves client outcomes.

Speakers

Wesley Caines

Deputy Director, The Bronx Defenders

Wesley Caines is a Bronx native of Caribbean heritage and the proud father of two children, Ashley and Gregory. A graduate of Bard College and New York Theological Seminary, his life’s journey has enriched him with a perspective on the importance of human connection and community... Read More →

Friday July 17, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am EDT

Plenary

9:45am EDT

Spark Talks

Friday July 17, 2026 9:45am - 11:15am EDT

See a panel of speakers on a variety of brief spark talks on various topics including Coaching, Teams, Policy and Fighting for Your Office, Team Leaders and Q&A

Coaching: Arlene Anderson
Culture: Lori James
Succession Planning: Greg Mermelstein
Advocating for Your Team: Lori Mach
Teamwork: Hadi Razzaq

Friday July 17, 2026 9:45am - 11:15am EDT

Plenary

1:30pm EDT

Building Resilience in Public Defense Leadership

Friday July 17, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT

Public defense leaders play a crucial role in shaping a work environment that supports their team’s longevity and excellence. This session will explore practical strategies to prevent burnout, foster resilience, and create a culture where defenders feel valued, supported, and committed to the work for the long haul. Participants will leave with actionable steps to strengthen their office’s well-being and sustainability, ensuring both staff retention and high-quality advocacy.

See: NAPD Ten Principles for Creating Sustainability in Public Defense

Speakers

Caitlin Becker

Social Work Director of Complex Advocacy, Bronx Defenders

Marisa Beckley

Director of Workplace Wellness, The Bronx Defenders

Marisa Beckley, LMSW has over a decade of experience in holistic public defense. She began her defense career at the Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem, where she was the office’s first civil legal advocate, supporting clients with family, immigration, and civil legal needs connected to their... Read More →

Friday July 17, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT

Plenary

2:30pm EDT

Finish Strong!

Friday July 17, 2026 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT

Speakers

Pam Love

President, DP Love Enterprises

Friday July 17, 2026 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT

Plenary

2:50pm EDT

Wrap Up

Friday July 17, 2026 2:50pm - 3:00pm EDT

Discussion of what we have learned and where do we go from here.

Friday July 17, 2026 2:50pm - 3:00pm EDT

Plenary

NAPD Leadership Legal Aid 2026

9:00am EDT

Wesley Caines

9:45am EDT

1:30pm EDT

Caitlin Becker

Marisa Beckley

2:30pm EDT

Pam Love

2:50pm EDT

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