Hillsborough County Public Defender's Office | 13th Judicial Circuit

Today, Public Defender Lisa B. McLean joined community leaders at The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Synergy Membership Luncheon to discuss public safety and engage in meaningful dialogue with local residents. She shared the stage with: ✨ The Honorable Christopher Sabella, Chief Judge ✨ Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez ✨ HCSO Chief Deputy Joseph Maurer Through strong collaboration with our criminal justice partners, our office remains committed to enhancing public safety and upholding a fair and just legal system for all.

Congratulations to APD Antonian on her victory! Due to her outstanding trial skills and strategic approach, our client was found NOT GUILTY on all charges! ⚖️ We thank APD Antonian for her hard work and commitment to our mission.

Our team had an amazing time participating in the Plant City Strawberry Festival Parade yesterday! 🍓 We’re proud to be part of this vibrant community and to celebrate such a cherished tradition together!

Public Defender Lisa B. McLean and our team had a great time joining the community at the @flstrawberryfestival Parade! It was a joy to hand out beads, candy, and plenty of smiles along the way.🍓🎊

Public Defender Lisa McLean attended the 2025 Strawberry Festival Parade Day Luncheon, celebrating Plant City’s rich traditions and the vibrant Hillsborough County community! 🍓 Her dedication to justice and service extends beyond the courtroom—she’s committed to engaging with the people she serves. Events like these showcase the heart of our community, bringing leaders and neighbors together in unity and fellowship. Did you attend the Strawberry Festival Parade? Drop your favorite moments in the comments!

A Historic Moment for Hillsborough County! Last night, we gathered to celebrate Lisa McLean as the duly elected Public Defender for Hillsborough County! The swearing-in reception was an unforgettable evening, filled with excitement, pride, and admiration for a leader who has dedicated her life to public service. Surrounded by family, friends, legal professionals, and community leaders, Lisa took the ceremonial oath of office, ready to embark on this new chapter with a steadfast commitment to justice, fairness, and advocacy for those in need. Her leadership, alongside the Executive Team and the 220 dedicated lawyers and staff in her office who tirelessly give of themselves, will be instrumental in ensuring that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, has access to quality legal representation. Congratulations, Lisa! Your passion and dedication will leave a lasting impact on Hillsborough County. Wishing you success in the important work ahead! #JusticeForAll #PublicDefender #Leadership

Honoring Legacy, Celebrating Excellence! Last night, Public Defender Lisa McLean attended the George Edgecomb Bar Association’s Black History Month Reception, where the organization’s founders were recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to the legal community. The evening was made even more special with words of wisdom from two legendary trailblazers—Delano Stewart, Esq. and The Honorable (Ret.) Arthenia Joyner—who inspired the audience with their powerful reflections on justice, perseverance, and leadership. A true celebration of Black excellence, this event reminded us of the shoulders we stand on and the work we must continue. Honoring the past, empowering the future! #BlackHistoryMonth #GEBA #LegacyOfExcellence

Exciting News for Hillsborough County! Today, Public Defender Lisa McLean attended the DJJ Groundbreaking Ceremony for the new Hillsborough Regional Juvenile Detention Center. This marks a significant step toward improving resources and support for youth in our community. As a dedicated advocate for justice, Lisa McLean continues to champion fairness, rehabilitation, and second chances for young people. This new facility represents progress in ensuring a more effective and compassionate juvenile justice system. Let’s keep working together to create opportunities for our youth and build a stronger future!

We wish the best to our certified legal interns taking the February 2025 Florida Bar Exam today. You've got this! ⚖️

Honoring Tampa’s Bravest at the Annual Firefighters Ball On Saturday night, Public Defender Lisa McLean and Chief of Staff Kimberly Hindman joined community leaders at the Tampa Fire Rescue Firefighters Ball, a night dedicated to celebrating the men and women who tirelessly serve and protect our community. Congratulations to this year’s outstanding award recipients: 🏆 Esprit De Corps: Engine & Rescue 15-C – Captain Carlos Mungray, Driver Engineer John O’Donnell, Firefighter Michael Sledd, Lieutenant Tommy Velar, and Firefighter Alexander Diamond, along with Tampa Police Officers Meghan Pantano, Lori Welsh, Kyle Brown, and Nikki Guinta 🏆 Meritorious Service Award: Paramedic Brian Mulcahey and Firefighter Jorge Viacava 🏆 Lifetime Achievement Award: Retired Fire Investigator Frank Rosete 🏆 Firefighter of the Year: Alex Canasi Lisa is always proud to stand with our labor unions, including the dedicated members of Tampa Firefighters Local 754, who not only keep our community safe but also ensure firefighters have a strong voice. It was a fantastic evening honoring true heroes!