Awarded by Unanimous Resolution of the Board of Directors of the California Public Defenders Association

Honoring Champions of Indigent Defense

The California Public Defenders Association is honored to recognize the 2025 awardees, whose courage, leadership, and dedication uphold the constitutional promise of equal justice for all.

Defender of the Year

Recognizes a defender or defenders who, in the opinion of other defenders, deserve special recognition for their work in criminal defense practice. In some cases, this is due to a particular effort in a case, while in other cases it is for an entire body of work.

Champion of Justice

Goes to an individual whose work has had a statewide impact on the lives of our clients. This year we are pleased to have two extraordinary winners.

Special Recognition

Recognizes members of the association and defender community in categories that may not necessarily occur annually, such as lifetime achievement in particular fields of criminal defense, retirements, and contributions to the defense community. This year we are pleased to recognize two extraordinary people.

Gideon Award

Recognizes members of the press, electronic media, and entertainment industry who have, through their work, helped make the criminal legal system more understandable and helped educate the public on the rights of those who are accused, the role of defense attorneys in protecting the rights of their clients, and the injustices in our system.

Defender Program of the Year

Recognizes defender offices that have developed special programs that serve as examples of important services for clients and staff.