Chief Public Defender

Lena Bryan-Henderson, Esq.

Lena Bryan-Henderson’s more than three-decade legal career is defined by an unwavering commitment to advocating for the indigent and to social justice. Since 1991, she has served as an Assistant Public Defender at the Allegheny County Office of the Public Defender. Her tireless representation of indigent clients in countless jury and non-jury trials is complemented by her expertise in researching, preparing, and arguing pre-trial and post-trial motions, negotiating plea agreements, and providing supervision to a team of trial attorneys. In addition to her legal practice, she established Lena Bryan-Henderson Law in 1991, a private practice specializing in criminal law, where she represents both children and adults.

Mrs. Bryan-Henderson actively engages in community activism, serving as a board member for Reimagine Reentry and a member of the Allegheny Lawyers Initiative for Justice. As a Founder and Vice President of the Pittsburgh Black Lawyers Alliance (PBLA), she addresses political and social issues, fosters mentorship, and creates employment opportunities for Black law students. She is a lifelong resident of Allegheny County, a wife, and mother of two adult sons. She received her Bachelor of Arts, Cum Laude from Howard University in 1987 and earned her Juris Doctorate from Duquesne University School of Law in 1990.

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