THE B.E.R.T. PROGRAM

BAIL | EXPUNGEMENT | REHABILITATION | TRANSITIONAL

The St. John the Baptist Public Defender Office is not only focused on assisting clients throughout the legal process, but also providing guidance to them as they transition and integrate into society, including the workforce, to prevent further contact with the criminal system.

Overall, the B.E.R.T. program is  designed to support and elevate our clients. The program was named, B.E.R.T., to pay homage to Richard Bert Stricks, a dedicated Public Defender with over 40 years of trial litigation experience.  Mr. Stricks has been the District Public Defender for the St. John the Baptist Public Defender Office since 1995. 

Along with our attorneys, the program will involve a social worker, client coordinator and administrative specialist.

The B.E.R.T. program will primarily focus on the following areas:

BAIL

Initial Appearances

Bond Reductions

Navigation of the Bail System

EXPUNGEMENT

Referrals and Information regarding Expungements

REHABILITATION

Employment Resources and Opportunities

Voluntary Mental Health Treatment Programs

Housing Assistance Programs

In order to be eligible for the B.E.R.T. program, applicants must have an open criminal case and be approved to receive legal services by the St. John the Baptist Public Defender Office.  For further inquiries, please contact Iriane B. Lee - iblee@stjohnpdo.org

APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED SOON!

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