Public Defense Staff Return to Work Following Contract Resolution

Operations at Brooklyn Defender Services, the city’s second-largest legal defense organization, resumed on Wednesday, July 22, following a week-long strike by attorneys, social workers, and support staff. The walkout, which began on July 16, had forced the postponement of various court dates and shifted case management duties to supervisors.

Under the terms of the tentative agreement, staff secured higher wages, increased retirement contributions, and additional sick leave. The deal also includes provisions for student loan support and permits remote work for most employees. Notably, the organization has agreed to discontinue the use of a location-tracking application that had been a point of contention during negotiations.

Executive Director Lisa Schreibersdorf, who is set to retire at the end of the year, stated that increased municipal funding for public defense allowed the organization to improve salary packages and maintain current health insurance contribution levels. As part of the resolution, the union will also have a role in the selection process for the organization’s next leadership.

Prior to the agreement, the labor dispute had drawn attention from local officials, with more than 30 lawmakers and political candidates signing a letter urging management to address the union’s demands.

This resolution occurs amid a broader period of labor activity within the city’s legal services sector. Other organizations, including the Bronx Defenders, are currently engaged in contract negotiations. Meanwhile, unionized employees at the Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem have indicated they may initiate a strike if a contract is not finalized by the end of the week.