New York City's public defender offices are facing a financial crisis due to systemic delays in the city's contracting system. Despite awareness from city officials, the problem remains unresolved, causing long payment delays for essential services. The average contract registration takes nearly 10 months, with many contracts unpaid for over a year. This crisis forces defender offices to seek private loans or grants, which is both unsustainable and unfair. If city action isn't taken this year, the city sends a clear message about the devaluation of rights related to due process and safety for New Yorkers.
If the city fails to act this year, it will send an unmistakable message to public defenders and the New Yorkers they serve that their rights to due process, family integrity, safety, and freedom are not valued.
The city's contracting system is plagued by delays. On average, it takes nearly 10 months to register a contract. Even after registration, payments are often delayed further.
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