Social Work
The Allegheny County Office of the Public Defender added a team of Social Workers to the office in 2018 with the understanding that the lives of our clients are intertwined with systemic issues which often result in interactions with the justice system.
Social workers are a part of the legal defense team and collaborate with attorneys and other advocates to provide a holistic legal defense strategy with clients based on their existing strengths and identified needs. They work to build relationships with our clients to connect them to relevant services, from treatment for mental health and substance use to training and employment opportunities. In this way, we continuously connect with and build a network of resources and service providers. Ultimately, the social work department works to ensure that case outcomes make sense not only for their legal cases of our clients, but for their lives, their families, and our communities.
Resources Available in Allegheny County
Looking for More Assistance?
Contact PA 2-1-1 Southwest by dialing 2-1-1 (answers 24/7) or by texting your zip code to 898-211, or by email.
If you have an emergency, please dial 9-1-1 or call resolve Crisis Network at 1-888-796-8226.