Strategic Initiative Fund (SIF)

MDefenders Center for Public Defense

The MDefenders Center for Public Defense (MCPD) is a national hub at Michigan Law dedicated to training the next generation of zealous, client-centered public defenders, strengthening public defense systems nationwide, and expanding equitable access to justice by integrating simulation-based training, trauma-informed advocacy education, alumni mentorship, data-driven litigation resources, and national policy engagement.

A national hub for education, research, and policy engagement, the MDefenders Center for Public Defense will be dedicated to training and inspiring the next generation of public defenders while simultaneously strengthening indigent defense systems across the United States. Building on the success of the Law School’s one-of-a-kind MDefenders program, the Center will serve as a national training platform for zealous, client-centered public defense advocacy; convene scholars, lawyers, and policymakers to improve and advance public defender systems; and equip other law schools to replicate Michigan’s model. The Center will expand curricular offerings at Michigan Law to include more simulation-based courses modeled on the school’s successful Public Defender Training Institute and to teach more students how to incorporate social science and trauma-informed advocacy into their future practice. An interdisciplinary partnership with the School of Social Work will prepare students to address client trauma, manage secondary trauma, and sustain long-term public service careers.