Bronx Defenders
Coverage of Bronx Defenders in the Nexus archive.
- Striking Bronx Defenders union says management left attorney no choice but to cross picket line for immigration hearing where client risks deportation
A striking immigration attorney at Bronx Defenders is forced to cross the picket line for a client's deportation hearing after management and a federal judge refused to postpone the case. The union claims the attorney's supervisor intentionally sought a continuance knowing it would compel the attorney to return to work, violating strike protocols designed to ensure client representation during the labor action.
- Why Bronx and Harlem Public Defenders Walked Off the Job
Public defenders in the Bronx and Harlem, represented by UAW Local 2325, are on strike over disputes involving pay raises, benefits, and healthcare costs. The union accuses management of offering higher raises to attorneys than social workers and forcing staff to contribute to healthcare, while negotiations remain stalled despite a $32 million funding increase for legal aid organizations.
- Brooklyn Defender Services ends strike with tentative agreement
The Brooklyn Defender Services Union ended a five-day strike with a tentative contract agreement that includes higher wages, improved benefits, and remote work arrangements. The deal, which requires member ratification, follows pressure from New York elected officials and comes amid similar strike plans by other legal service providers in the city.
- NYC public defender unions push to get funding in the city budget
NYC public defender unions, including Bronx Defenders and Brooklyn Defender Services, are demanding wage increases and better benefits as they negotiate contracts expiring June 30, the same day the city budget is due. The Association of Legal Advocates and Attorneys (ALAA) seeks $80 million to achieve pay parity with federal public defenders and has warned of potential strikes if demands are not met.