About APDM
The Association for the Public Defender of Maryland (APDM) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to support the activities of the Maryland Office of the Public Defender. While the Public Defender's state budget, at least in theory, covers the base expenses of providing constitutionally acceptable representation, it lacks resources to address systemic issues and to provide the holistic services that is clients need. APDM works to fill this gap by collaborating with foundations and other private sector partners to address PD's high priority resource needs.
Our Mission
Building community and professional partnerships to advance the Maryland Office of the Public Defender’s holistic representation and support for justice involved individuals.
Our Vision
People and communities impacted by both the legal system and poverty are respected and resourced.
Johanna Leshner
Executive Director
Melissa Rothstein
Program Manager, Decarceration Initiative
Our Team
Alexandra Strubing Paradise, Esq., President
Law Office of Alexandra Strubing Paradise
A. Stephen Hut, Esq., Treasurer/Secretary
Maryland Office of the Public Defender, Ret.
Rebecca L. Fix, Ph.D
Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins
Our Board
Natasha Dartigue, Esq.
Public Defender, Maryland Office of the Public Defender
Robert M. Johnson, Jr., Esq.
Law Office of Robert M. Johnson, Jr.
Gordon R. Pack, Jr.
PREPARE
Laurens G. Van Sluytman, Ph.D
Morgan State University, School of Social Work
Zachary K. Warren, Esq.
Williams and Connolly, LLP