Dear Stakeholders,

As we close on our second full year as the District 7 Public Defender’s Office, I am deeply proud of how far we’ve come together. From four counties once described as a “legal desert,” we have built a vibrant, client-centered team committed to zealous advocacy and compassionate service.

The past year has been one of growth, innovation, and preparation for the future. We strengthened our staff with new attorneys and support personnel, improved our case management systems, and continued to refine our data-driven approach to measuring performance and accountability. We also enhanced our physical spaces — most notably, by redesigning the attorney-client meeting room at the Halifax County Jail to promote dignity, privacy, and trust.

Looking ahead, 2026 will mark the launch of two major initiatives that embody our mission and values. The D7 Justice Support Network will pair community mentors with individuals awaiting trial, helping to restore hope and stability through positive connection. Our internal Learn & Lead sessions — which have become a cornerstone of our team’s professional development — will also evolve into certified Continuing Legal Education opportunities, extending our culture of learning to both staff and private assigned counsel.

These initiatives, like the work we do every day, reflect a single truth: public defense is not merely a profession; it is a promise — to stand with those who have no one else, to fight for fairness, and to uphold the dignity of every person we serve.

Tonza D. Ruffin – Chief Public Defender