Defenders of the defenceless

Training paralegals and lawyers within defenceless communities to provide legal services for themselves and others. Because everyone deserves a fair hearing.

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Justice Defenders: Reforming the System Together
Why Justice?

From Uganda to the United States, we are living amidst a global justice crisis.

Worldwide, three million men, women, and children are being held in overcrowded prisons without a trial. Countless voices are lost in the noise. But we are listening. 

About Us

A common cause with unlikely allies, creating remarkable possibilities for good.

Founded in 2007, Justice Defenders is a movement from all walks of life. As a registered US nonprofit and UK charity working across three African countries, we are a community of prisoners, prison officers, lawyers, judges, and allies. Unlikely companions, working together for justice.

Meet THE Defenders →
Our Model

Legal education, training, and practice with communities in conflict with the law.

Some things can only be seen through eyes that have cried. So we work within defenceless communities to offer world-class law degrees, paralegal training, and free legal services to those without. Our defenders are protecting rights while addressing wrongs. 

Learn How WE work →
The Impact

Transformation of Justice

266

auxiliary paralegals running 25 legal practices in Uganda, Kenya and The Gambia.

142,000

imprisoned clients without access to justice, served with free legal services.

55,000

incarcerated clients released and returned to their families as a result of our work.

Our Partners

In the spirit of solidarity and radical inclusion.

Lives are lost waiting for justice to arrive. We accelerate progress alongside governments, NGOs, national prison services, funders, the judiciary, universities, and the wider legal fraternity.

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