County opens new Public Defender building in downtown San Bernardino

Last week the San Bernardino County Public Defender’s office held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of their new office building in downtown San Bernardino.

The newly built headquarters is on the former site of the First American Title building and consolidates under one roof several public defender divisions including, Central, Administration and specialty units from the Special Litigation and Human Services divisions.

“This building and the Public Defender’s Office symbolize the County’s commitment to innovation and efficiency,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Curt Hagman. “This project will allow for cost-saving consolidation. Adult Services has been spread out over 3 different office locations. This building allowed the Public Defender to move that team here in one location.”

The three-story building at 323 W. Court St., across from the historic courthouse, has two floors of offices that serve 120 County employees. It includes a state-of-the art training room that can be converted into a mock trial courtroom and common work areas that promote collaboration and stress-relief.

“This building symbolizes the Board of Supervisors’ trust and recognition of the need for a strong and well-funded Public Defender,” said Public Defender Thomas Sone. “This new environment fosters the overall well-being of our team and allows us to better serve our clients.  It not only stands as a pledge to defend the rights and dignity of our clients but also provide equitable access to justice.”