Name: Sustaining Yourself Through Good and Bad Times
Start: 2026-07-17T13:15:00-0400
End: 2026-07-17T14:15:00-0400

Sustaining Yourself Through Good and Bad Times

Friday July 17, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm 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

Caitlin Becker (she/her) is Social Work Director of Complex Advocacy in the Family Defense Practice at the Bronx Defenders (BxD). Prior to returning to BxD to take on this role, Caitlin was the Director of Holistic Defense at the Santa Cruz County Office of the Public Defender. She has been a holisti... Read More →

Lori James

Executive Director, National Association for Public Defense

Dr. Lori James, PhD, LCSW-C, is the Executive Director of the National Association for Public Defense (NAPD), representing more than 27,000 public defense professionals nationwide to drive systemic legal reform. With over 30 years of experience spanning criminal legal reform, clinical... Read More →

Friday July 17, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm EDT

Plenary

NAPD Leadership Legal Aid 2026

Caitlin Becker

Lori James

Get help with the event

NAPD Leadership Legal Aid 2026

Caitlin Becker

Lori James

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