APANJ Responding to COVID Crisis

Members:

In this time of unprecedented challenge and disruption plaguing the country, the APANJ is fully aware of the impact that COVID-19 is having on the personal and professional lives of our members. We are here. We care. And we want to hear from you.

Since the onset of the crisis, our executive board and trustees have met regularly to discuss how we can support members and mitigate the ongoing effects this crisis is having on you. We have been examining the response and mitigation strategies employed by each county office, focusing specifically on the steps they are taking to minimize the risk of infection among their employees. Every day we communicate with each other and members across the State, sharing information to ensure that county offices are putting the health and safety of their staff first. You can help too by telling us how your office is doing. As this crisis continues our goal is to have a positive impact on as many members as possible. Let us know if there is something more we can do.

Our Association also is concerned about the extraordinary pressures that are being placed on all of you during this evolving crisis. The ever-changing AOC directives as well as the reaction to this crisis by the Office of the Public Defender, including their call for the immediate and massive reduction in the jail population, has presented unforeseen challenges further contributing to our already overstrained staff. This will continue to be our focus in the coming days. Stay tuned for more information.

The APANJ’s mission is to support its members especially during this crisis. We invite your involvement and input.

Stay engaged, stay healthy, and please stay safe.

David V. Calviello
President, APANJ