LA County Public Defender Unveils Innovative Office Space and Civic Art Inspired by the Criminal Legal System

In celebration of April as Arts Month, the LA County Office of the Public Defender announces the completion of a major renovation project that transformed a former file-storage warehouse into a modern, state-of-the-art office space, now adorned with unique artwork inspired by the criminal legal system.

Located in the historic Hall of Records, the newly renovated space is designed to house the Department’s human resources and central investigations divisions. The office layout includes advanced technological resources, collaborative work areas and confidential meeting rooms.

Through a partnership with the LA County Department of Arts and Culture, which administers the Civic Art Policy to commission artwork for county offices and facilities, eight artists created artwork that reflects the nature of indigent defense. The artworks, which will be permanently displayed throughout the space, explore themes critical to understanding and appreciating the role of public defenders in the justice system.

“The artwork in our new space goes beyond decoration. It’s a profound statement on justice, struggle, and hope,” said Public Defender Ricardo D. García. “Each piece reflects the real human stories we encounter every day and serves as a daily reminder of the importance of our work. This partnership has been a unique opportunity to translate the emotional and complex experiences of public defenders and our clients into visual narratives.”

The artists were invited to immerse themselves in the public defense realm to gain firsthand insights into the challenging work of defending the indigent. Artists attended trials, engaged with public defenders, and met with clients to immerse themselves in the experiences that shape the practice of public defense.

“Art has the power to shift civic narratives, moving us closer to social justice for all. As an attorney myself, I am moved that our collaboration with Public Defender became an opportunity to explore the role of justice and equity in our legal system,” said Kristin Sakoda, director of the LA County Department of Arts and Culture. “The eight artists we commissioned engaged in the daily work of the Public Defender, its staff and clients, and then created extraordinary artworks that tell eight unique stories about our legal system, its challenges, and our shared humanity. It’s a testament to the ways art can communicate and uplift the County’s services to the people of Los Angeles.” 

This deep engagement allowed artists to capture the essence of public defense work in their art. The Public Defender’s Office hopes that this space will inspire both staff and visitors by creating an environment that reflects the dedication to justice that defines public defense.

To watch a video of the grand opening and art unveiling, click here.