Cheyne Castroni
Program Manager, Partners for Justice, Former Bronx Defenders colleague

Elvin Ramos
Founder, Past President, Global Tassels

Marian Mikhail, Esq.
Attorney, Alternate Public Defender (CA)

Simmi Kaur, Esq.
Attorney, Youth Represents

“I am proud to endorse Lenora Easter for public defender. Because right now, more than ever, the people need to be defended from the enemies of equality. This is about giving all of our children a better America, a better world, and she will fight for that like nobody else.“

“I am writing to express my wholehearted endorsement of Lenora Easter as the next Public Defender of the Ninth Judicial Circuit. Having worked closely with Lenora during her tenure at PD9, I have witnessed firsthand her unparalleled dedication, legal acumen, and unwavering commitment to justice. Her exceptional work ethic and profound understanding of the law make her an ideal candidate for this esteemed role.Lenora’s proven track record of successfully representing clients from all walks of life, coupled with her ability to remain composed under pressure, sets her apart from the other candidates.

Her passion for advocating for underprivileged and marginalized communities has been evident throughout her career. As a highly respected attorney in multiple states, I firmly believe that Lenora’s integrity, compassion, and extensive experience make her the perfect choice to serve as the next Public Defender. I am confident that she will bring a fresh perspective and enact significant positive changes within the office. I have the utmost confidence in her abilities and firmly believe she will excel in this important role.“

“I had the pleasure of working with Lenora Easter at the Bronx Defenders. As a newly admitted attorney, I found her to be an incredible mentor who taught me the importance of zealous advocacy. I endorse Lenora Easter for Chief Public Defender! Not only is Lenora a committed advocate who takes pride in her work, but she also has a profound passion for criminal defense. She never applies a cookie-cutter approach to holistic defense but instead takes each client on a case-by-case basis, truly investing in their outcomes.Lenora’s expertise gives her a bird’s-eye view of the collateral consequences of criminal convictions. Her experience in policy creation at the national level would make her a fantastic Chief Public Defender. I wholeheartedly endorse her and offer my support for her campaign!”

“As an Orlando native and former public defender, I am excited to endorse Lenora Easter, Esq. for 9th Judicial Circuit Public Defender for Orange and Osceola Counties. Lenora and I met several years ago while we were both public defenders working in the Bronx County Hall of Justice. Lenora’s diverse criminal defense experience, fierce client-centered advocacy, and strong leadership skills stood out as she quickly became a leader in the legal community. What makes Lenora uniquely suited for this position is her love for the Orlando community, her unique talent for bringing out the best in others, and her deep commitment to ensuring everyone receives competent, compassionate, and effective legal representation regardless of their background or circumstances.

Leading a public defender’s office requires an unwavering commitment to empathy, integrity, persistence, and professionalism. Lenora effortlessly exemplifies these qualities and more. Orlando would be blessed to have her as the 9th Judicial Circuit Public Defender, and I have no doubt that she will change our community for the better.“

“I am truly excited to endorse Lenora Easter to be the next Ninth Circuit Public Defender. Lenora is the consummate public servant: intelligent, compassionate, and authentic. I’ve had the distinct pleasure of calling Lenora a colleague and friend for over eight years. We first met in the Bronx Hall of Justice, where we both represented underserved clients as spirited public defenders. For many years, I observed Lenora zealously advocate for her clients with skill, tenacity, and integrity. I’ve seen her assume leadership roles at the Bronx Defenders and train the next generation of defenders who, like her, are committed to social justice.

I’ve proudly celebrated her accomplishments, such as when she was awarded the National Black Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 in 2017. Now, I am delighted to see her run for the position that I believe she has been preparing for her entire career. Lenora’s extensive experience in the field, as well as her legal acumen, make her more than qualified to serve the constituents of Orange and Osceola Counties, and I offer my endorsement without reservation!“

“Lenora Easter has the wisdom, heart, and passion to be an excellent Ninth Circuit Public Defender. I wholeheartedly endorse her for that position. Having worked alongside Lenora in representing wrongfully accused and abused individuals in New York City as part of the National Lawyers Guild Police Accountability Project, I have observed her talent and dedication to fighting for justice.

Lenora is committed to protecting our sacred constitutional rights. She brings vision and enthusiasm to everything she does, builds bridges, and develops strong teams. She uses her remarkable leadership and communication skills to achieve great results for clients and teammates alike. With a great love for serving her community, Lenora will be a tremendous force for good as the next Ninth Circuit Public Defender. Vote for Lenora Easter on August 20!“

“After 21 years at the Public Defender’s Office, I have worked alongside many managers and attorneys. Lenora is the perfect choice for Public Defender. She has the integrity, compassion, experience, and temperament to lead the office and be a fierce advocate for serving the underprivileged in our community. Lenora has dedicated her entire career to public defense, starting at our office, joining the Bronx Defenders, and moving on to national organizations like Partners for Justice to help support people navigating the criminal legal system. Lenora has a unique combination of public defense experience in both criminal trial litigation and providing support services to public defenders across the country.

Her leadership as the next Public Defender for Orange and Osceola County will ensure that justice is fair and equal for all. Her background as a leader with Partners for Justice, an organization that helps people maintain employment and licenses and access treatment, enables her to knowledgeably navigate how to use the Public Defender’s office to help reduce recidivism and protect the community.“

“I worked with Lenora on a case in 2019-2022. I worked with Lenora in the thick of the pandemic as the world was shut down, but Lenora did not!!!! During this time, she referred a client of hers to our office. I had the pleasure of being the program case manager assigned to this case, and it was the most difficult case I have ever encountered in all my time working at Bronx Connect. I remember a random afternoon in April 2020 when I mentioned a conversation I had with Jose and explained some of his past experiences. There was one part of this conversation which stuck out—a mitigating circumstance which turned the entire case around. Lenora asked to call me back, and an hour later, we had a meeting with the district attorney’s office set up for the following week. A month later, a disposition was agreed upon. Jose entered drug treatment and a psychiatric facility. Today, Jose has full-time employment and is living a law-abiding and fulfilled life.

This is who Lenora Easter is—a woman who gets things done! A woman who sees you from the inside and will not stop until a resolution is reached. In the past several years, I have been able to develop a friendship with Ms. Easter, and daily I am proud of everything she is and all she will continue to do for her community! Thank you, Lenora, for being the reason so many young people have remained out of jail and are better for having met you! You are the change we want to see in this world!”

“I have supervised social workers and other mental health professionals at the PD for more than 16 years. We try to help indigent, special needs defendants get the rehabilitation, medication, and treatment that they need to get out of the revolving door. We served more than 6,000 special needs clients last year, and we collaborate with hundreds of agencies (medical facilities, substance abuse providers, veteran’s services, homeless shelters, etc.) to do this very important work. Our goal is rehabilitation; therefore, we serve the defendants as well as the community. I know that our work is one of the reasons that crime in our area has significantly decreased over the years.

I worked with Lenora for six years when she was at the PD. She stood out as an attorney because she was very intelligent and witty, but additionally because she was always kind and courteous with her coworkers. Not many individuals are compassionate and humble, but I think for a role serving indigent and marginalized populations, it is supremely important to elect a true humanitarian who does not judge others based on race, creed, color, or position. Lenora went on from here to work with the Bronx Defenders for eight years (an interdisciplinary team whose mission is highly respected by forensic clinicians such as myself). Next, she became a partner at an esteemed national organization doing the same kind of work, helping people so that they stop the behaviors that get them arrested.

Her experience as a supervisor and a leader, coupled with her down-to-earth nature, will be a perfect fit for this work. We need a leader who believes in equity, who is non-judgmental, and who can understand and advocate for our community. Lenora truly wants to make a difference. We can do more work in terms of reducing the crime rate by getting help for those who have substance abuse and mental health needs. Lenora’s heart and soul are in this work. She has a great understanding of the problems that we need to address to create equity in the system and a conviction to do the work. She is the candidate that this office needs. Under her leadership and values, I know that we can do even more to serve this community.“

“As a lifelong Floridian, I am proud to endorse Lenora Easter for Public Defender for the Orange and Osceola community. I worked with Lenora at Partners for Justice and I had the privilege of watching Lenora supervise and teach teams of young professionals how to work with their public defenders as advocates. She met with her advocates consistenly and went above and beyond to make sure they understand their work and felt supported. She attened many career fairs, had the chance to represent PFJ nationally at a conference and she is a part of the Senior Leadership Team at PFJ, and she ensured staff was heard and porperly represented. Lenora is always in your corner and will tirelessly fight for you! When she started with us, she was still wrapping up a trial in NY while onboarding at PFJ.

I have seen firsthand how dedicated she is to ensuring that everyone receives fair representation. Lenora also works with a lot of Chief Public Defenders across the nation and in that role she is a change maker. Lenora Easter is not only a skilled attorney and effective leader, but she is also a compassionate champion with a vision! I wholeheartedly believe she will bring the positive change that the Orlando metro area needs.“

“I’ve known and worked with Lenora for over 10 years. During that time, I worked at the Bronx District Attorney’s Office and Lenora worked at the Bronx Defenders. Although we were on opposite sides of the aisle, Lenora consitently treated me and other ADA’s she came across with the utmost respect and courtesy. Her dedication was readily apparent as I saw firsthand how she would advocate for her clients in court.

I would say she is a fierce power to be reckoned with. Lenora and I also worked closely with the Bronx Dems (Bronx Democratic Party). I am now a District Leader, but Lenora would deicate her time outside of work here and this is a testament to how much she cares for her community. She is oustanding and showcases integrity and passion for justice. The State of Florida is lucky to have her! “

“As an attorney, I am honored to endorse Lenora Easter for the position of Public Defender for the Ninth Judicial Circuit, encompassing Orange and Osceola counties. Her election will not only be a historic milestone as the first Black woman to hold this position in the state of Florida, but it will also bring a transformative vision and unparalleled dedication to our justice system.
Lenora Easter’s leadership will bring much-needed diversity and a fresh perspective to the Public Defender’s Office, fostering an environment of inclusivity and reform.

She is not just a candidate; she is a catalyst for change who will work tirelessly to reduce recidivism, address systemic inequities, and advocate for the most vulnerable members of our society.I wholeheartedly support Lenora Easter in her historic run for Public Defender, confident that her election will herald a new era of justice and equality in Florida. Let us make history together by supporting a leader who represents the best of what our community has to offer.”

“I have known Lenora for over 20 years here in the Orlando community. I met her when she attended UCF and she has always shown herself to be a kind, caring, knowledgeable, and a confident person. I have had the pleasure of seeing her transform into a fierce advocate for her community here and in NY.

I am confident she will be a great defender of public rights and will lead the office with professionalism. She loves Orlando and we love her! I look forward to seeing her shine as she represents our community as the next Public Defender.”

“Working with Ms. Lenora Easter and their family during her home search in Orlando last year. We had lots of talks about her work and the fact that Florida was the place she wanted to live and raise her family. I could tell Lenora loved her work as a public defender and working with others acorss the nation because she would light up.

Lenora is a compassionate perosn that cares about people. This is a quality not only she will need for her clients, but for her staff and those she works with outside the office. She is smart and tenacious and I know she will be the best one for this role. I endorse her and support her 100%.”

“I am proud to endorse Lenora Easter for public defender. Because right now, more than ever, the people need to be defended from the enemies of equality. This is about giving all of our children a better America, a better world, and she will fight for that like nobody else.“

“I am writing to endorse Lenora Easter for Orange and Osceola Public defender.   I have had the pleasure of knowing Lenora for several years now, and I can confidently say that they possess the necessary qualities and skills to excel in this position. Lenora and I attended law school together and from as early as then, I can see she has what it takes to succeed in any endeavor she takes on.  I had the opportunity to see her not only excel in law school but she continues to excel in her professional career also. As a public defender, she is committed to fight for the rights of those who cannot defend themselves and resulting in a huge impact on the lives of many.

As a citizen of Orlando, Florida I believe it is essential to elect leaders who are committed to improving our community and Lenora Easter is such a leader.  She has proven this through her various charitable work for several causes.  I believe they will continue to work tirelessly to make the community a better and safer place. 

I strongly recommend and endorse Lenora Easter in this upcoming election.  I am confident they will make a positive impact and work towards the betterment of our community. Please join me in supporting Lenora Easter and electing them as as Public Defender Orange and Osceola counties.”

“I have known Lenora Easter for over 20 years as a fellow attorney. For the last 17 years she has dedicated her professional career to public defense, whether that was with the Public Defender’s office in Florida or NY or while working to empower Public Defenders across the country by providing ancillary public services and support.

I could not think of a better person to head the Public Defender’s office for the Ninth Circuit of Orange and Osceola counties than my colleague, fellow Supreme Court of United States admitted attorney, and dear friend Lenora Easter.

Lenora has the experience and expertise, both locally and nationwide, and has made Public Defense her professional life’s focus. With a true servant’s heart and passion for helping people and serving her community, she is the best-suited candidate for the position.

I hope you will join me in supporting her candidacy and voting for Lenora Easter on August 20.”

“Lenora Easter is the strongest candidate for Chief Public Defender!

I have the privilege of working alongside her at the University of Central Florida, where I saw firsthand how successful she was, both as an employee and a student. Following her degree, she achieved a great number of goals.

Lenora had a strong desire to lead and was committed to doing so. She is the epitome of integrity, equity, willingness, and consideration in whatever she accomplished.

Lenora stands out due to her unique mix of qualities. She will be a fantastic Chief Public Defender and I offer my support for her campaign!“

“I’ve known Lenora Easter for over 15 years. We both started our careers at the Ninth Judicial Public Defender’s Office and since then, I have watched her evolve into the formidable attorney that she is today.  Whether in Florida or elsewhere, she is someone who has always fiercely advocated for her clients ensuring their due process.

Lenora gained six invaluable years of experience at the Orlando Public Defenders honing her litigation skills. She then went to join the Bronx Defenders where she became a leader in her community. Under her leadership she inspired unbridled advocacy for underserved and marginalized populations by representing them in court, advocating and lobbying for key laws in Albany and her greteast contribution to her community was the creation of her Early Defense Team. In 2019, she developed and directed the Early Defense Team (EDT), an interdisciplinary unit that focused on representing pre-arrest and pre-petition individuals in family neglect and abuse cases.This gave marginalized communites access to legal services that they would not otherwise have because they could not afford to retain a lawyer. She and her team facilitated safe surrender, invoking of rights, and representation during line-up. In addition, her team fought diligently against coercive interrogations and illegally obtained evidence. This required working with NYPD and the DA’s office.  Under her leadership, EDT conducted robust pre-trial investigations and social services that resulted in unprecedented dismissals and the preservation of the family unit.

Lenora embodies all the qualifications of a remarkable counselor, and public servant. I fully endorse her candidacy for the election of the Public Defender for the 9th Judicial Circuit for Orange and Osceola Counties.”

“I am thrilled to support Lenora Easter as the next Public Defender of Orlando. I had the pleasure of working closely with Lenora during her nearly ten years at The Bronx Defenders, an innovative, progressive, holistic indigent defense office in the South Bronx.  During that time Lenora served not only as a committed staff attorney but also a founding member and early leader of the Early Defense Team, the first of its kind at The Bronx Defenders.

As Supervising Attorney of the Criminal Defense Practice Early Defense team, Lenora oversaw all of the casework of a team of attorneys as well as represented her own caseload of clients. Lenora is a pioneer in the field of public defense as well as an exemplary leader and public defender who consistently demonstrates the best of client-centered values in her representation. Orlando would be so fortunate to have Lenora’s commitment to public defense and demonstrated leadership experience as Orlando’s next Chief Public Defender.“

“As a former law school colleague and long-time friend of Lenora, I am thrilled to offer my wholehearted endorsement for her candidacy as the Public Defender for the 9th Judicial Circuit. Lenora and I shared the trenches of law school at Barry School of Law, where her dedication and passion for public defense were already evident. Our bond strengthened during our time interning at the Public Defender’s Office  where I witnessed firsthand her remarkable skills and unwavering commitment to justice. 

Lenora’s journey in the realm of public defense is nothing short of inspiring. She dedicated five years to serving the communities of Orange and Osceola Counties, laying the foundation for her extensive experience in criminal defense. Her decision to broaden her horizons led her to The Bronx Defenders, where she rose to the role of supervising attorney, showcasing her leadership and legal acumen. Subsequently, Lenora’s role as a Regional Program Director at Partners for Justice allowed her to contribute on a national scale, bringing her invaluable insights from both Florida and New York to the forefront.

What sets Lenora apart is not just her impressive resume, but her innate qualities as a leader, public speaker, trial attorney, and above all, her unwavering integrity. In an arena as demanding and crucial as public defense, Lenora’s intelligence and ethics shine brightly. She approaches each case with empathy, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring fair and just representation for every client.

Having worked at the Public Defender’s Office upon graduating from Barry, I have experienced firsthand the challenges and complexities of public defense. I have no doubt that Lenora is the ideal candidate for Public Defender. Her combination of experience, expertise, and genuine dedication to the cause make her not just the best candidate, but the only choice. I am confident that Lenora will excel in this role, continuing to uphold the principles of justice and fairness that she has tirelessly championed throughout her career.

Lenora’s vision for the Public Defender’s Office is one of inclusivity, compassion, and relentless advocacy. I wholeheartedly support her candidacy and urge the community to join me in electing Lenora as our next Public Defender. With her at the helm, I have no doubt that Orange and Osceola Counties will be in capable and compassionate hands.“

“I came to know Lenora through her role with a national nonprofit organization that works to provide collaborative support services to people navigating the criminal legal system. Lenora has devoted her entire legal career to public defense. She currently works, nationally, with Chief Public Defenders and their offices to empower public defense in a collaboraive way.

Lenora is compassionate, fair, and committed to providing equal justice to all people. She is the leader the people of Orange & Osceola County deserve.“

“As a colleague and friend of Lenora Easter for nearly a decade, it is my pleasure to endorse her for Public Defender.

Lenora and I met at The Bronx Defenders, where we were both trial attorneys, often collaborating and brainstorming with each other as we prepared our cases and fought hard for our clients in court. Lenora has always brought a combination of pragmatism and warmth to her role as a counselor—a community-rooted perspective which recognized the whole humanity of everyone in the criminal court system.

In the years that followed, I left the courtroom to start an initiative to transform public defense nationwide, recognizing that public defenders can do so much to spur public safety, health, and economic mobility. Representing 80% of people in the criminal legal system, public defenders have enormous reach and capacity to do good not just for their clients, but for all of us: after all, the stability of a person in crisis benefits those around them, those who care for them, and the neighborhoods in which they live. A few years later, Lenora came over to join us at Partners for Justice, and broaden her work from one court system to entire regions of public defense.

Lenora will bring that whole-community perspective to her role as Public Defender. I know she’s been steeped in the most cutting-edge collaborative defense practices during her time here at PFJ, and has gained the best knowledge in the field on what actually works to help people thrive. She’s not going to keep doing things the way they’ve always been done—she’s going to innovate, adopt top-of-the-line methodology, and ensure that her office is a model for not just the state, but the nation. 

The prospect of having Lenora Easter fight for the people of Orange and Osceola is tremendously exciting, and it is my pleasure to endorse her candidacy.”

“I am honored to endorse Lenora Easter as a candidate for Public Defender of Orange and Osceola Counties. Having worked closely with Lenora as her coach, I have witnessed firsthand her unwavering passion and commitment to justice.

Her deep care for her community and her dedication to making a real difference are just a few of the reasons why I fully support Lenora Easter’s candidacy. With her at the helm, I am confident that Orange and Osceola Counties will see impactful and positive changes in the public defender’s office.”

“Lenora’s grandfather, Ed Perkins, was not only a proud veteran but also a devoted community volunteer, tirelessly dedicating himself to aiding others in Schenectady, NY. Witnessing Lenora’s work thus far and seeing her carry forward her grandfather’s legacy of passionate service is truly inspiring.

Having had the privilege of knowing Mr. Perkins personally, I can confidently say he would be immensely proud and deeply touched to see his beloved granddaughter continue the cherished family tradition of selflessly serving her community. The Schenectady Dems support and endorse Lenora as Public Defender of Orange & Osceola County.”

“I wholeheartedly endorse Lenora Easter, whose high-level expertise and commitment to community make her the right candidate for Public Defender. With over 15 years of experience in both local and national public defense, Lenora’s profound knowledge and dedication to justice are unparalleled. Her innovative leadership at the Bronx Defenders and her role as a Regional Director for Partners for Justice highlight her ability to transform public defense practices on a broad scale.

Lenora’s deep-rooted connection to our community, coupled with her extensive legal background, positions her as a standout figure in the field. Her exceptional skill in managing complex cases and her commitment to empowering others through education and mentorship reflect her passion for serving the community with integrity and compassion.

Lenora’s expertise, combined with her genuine dedication to public service, makes her an invaluable asset to our community. I wholeheartedly support Lenora Easter and encourage others to recognize the incredible impact she continues to make.”

“I am writing this to express my unwavering support and endorsement for Lenora Easter as the ideal candidate for the position of Public Defender of the Ninth Judicial Circuit in Florida. As someone who has had the privilege of working closely with Lenora during our time together at the Bronx Defenders, I can confidently attest to her exceptional qualities and tireless dedication to her clients, coworkers, and community.

Throughout her professional journey, Lenora consistently demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to serving the residents of the Bronx. Whether it was within the confines of the courtroom or through our community intake department, Lenora’s passion for helping individuals with their legal issues was evident. I have personally witnessed her go above and beyond to assist those who walked in off the street seeking guidance and support.

During my transition to the role of Chief of Staff, Lenora’s innovative and creative abilities truly shone. She took the initiative to establish the Early Defense team, leading a diverse group of lawyers, investigators, social workers, and non-attorney staff. Her exceptional leadership skills and organizational prowess were on full display as she effectively served as a liaison between staff and management while simultaneously managing her own caseload and overseeing the team’s operations.

Lenora’s dedication and resilience were particularly evident during the challenging times brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. When our office had to close its doors, Lenora and her team became a lifeline for the community through their 24/7 hotline, ensuring uninterrupted support for those in need. She tirelessly worked to facilitate safe surrenders for clients, even taking calls in the middle of the night, showcasing her unwavering commitment to the well-being of her clients.

I wholeheartedly endorse Lenora Easter for the position of Public Defender of the Ninth Judicial Circuit in Florida. Her unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership skills, and tireless advocacy for her clients make her the ideal candidate for this role. I have no doubt that Lenora will bring the same level of passion, commitment, and innovation to the Ninth Judicial Circuit that she has consistently demonstrated throughout her career. “

“Lenora Easter isn’t just a candidate for Public Defender for Orange and Osceola County in Florida; she’s the epitome of fairness and justice personified. Lenora and I attended UCF and worked alongside one another in the Undergraduate Admissions office. She would talk about her desires of being a lawyer and after graduating law school, I saw firthand her unwavering commitment to righteousness and her unparalleled dedication to the cause of ensuring equality under the law.

Lenora’s passion for justice was evident in every aspect of her academic and professional pursuits. Her relentless pursuit of truth and equity, coupled with her innate sense of empathy and compassion, made her an invaluable asset to our university community. Whether it was collaborating on projects, engaging in debates, or simply offering support to her peers, Lenora always approached every interaction with integrity and kindness.

Her leadership qualities were unmistakable, as she fearlessly advocated for the rights of the marginalized and disadvantaged. Lenora’s ability to listen attentively, analyze complex issues, and devise effective solutions set her apart as a true champion for the people.

As Lenora embarks on her journey to serve as the Public Defender, I have no doubt that she will bring the same level of dedication, integrity, and compassion to her role. With Lenora at the helm, Orange and Osceola County can rest assured knowing that they have a fair and just advocate fighting tirelessly on their behalf. I wholeheartedly endorse Lenora Easter for Public Defender because she has already proven she will make a positive and lasting impact on our community.”

“I have had the privilege of knowing and watching Lenora grow over the last 20 years. She has always been the kindest, sweetest most respectful young lady. She knew early on what she wanted to do with her life which was to help and defend those in need of legal assistance; so law school became her main focus. Fortunately for me, I was around to see her pursue this career with extreme dedication and determination. I have witnessed her participation in Mock Court as part of the Moot Court Team in Law School and her trial work as a public defender here in Orlando. She has always been a force to be reckoned with, but she does it with such grace. Anyone that comes in contact with her can attest that she has a warm inviting spirit. She prides herself on being a role model for young women to look up to. Leadership comes organically to Lenora and I have no doubt in her ability to lead the Public Defenders Office for Orange and Osceola counties.”

“Lenora Easter is a quintessential professional of undeniable talent. I have known and worked with Lenora for over seven years at the Bronx County Hall of Justice. Throughout our interactions, I consistently witnessed Lenora’s thorough preparedness, deep respect for her clients and professional conduct with court staff and Judges. Whenever she was in a trial or hearing, she advocated zealously for her clients while also displaying extreme deference to the Court.

I can attest to her ability to work collaboratively with law enforcement personnel within the courthouse. Attorneys like her who display dedication and her level of professionalism contribute significantly to the smooth operations of the court system. I witnessed her unwavering dedication to her work and her community; from her work with the Early Defense Team and putting together a Town Hall as the Co-Chair of the Criminal Law section of the Metropolitan Black Bar Association. Keeping her community supported and informed is her mission. Lenora has always been an absolute joy to work with. She consistently fosters positive discussions and brings the best out of others.”

“I support and endorse Lenora for Public Defender for Orange and Osceola County. I am a veteran and have worked as a corrections officer for over twenty years (20). Thirteen (13) of those years were at the Orange County Jail (33rd). I met Lenora while working there when she would come to visit her clients.

She was always dressed professionally and would treat myself and the other officers with respect and kindness. She was never rude or disrespectful and she took time with her clients during her visits with them. Her clients would often say good things about her and she was one of the lawyers who really stood out. “

“I have known Lenora Easter for 15 years, as she was my first trial partner when I worked at the Ninth Circuit Assistant Public Defender’s Office. I had the privilege of working very closely with her on hundreds of files and doing trials together. I have personally witnessed her advocate for her clients inside and outside of the courtroom. Lenora Easter is extremely hard-working, dedicated, and professional, but it is her warmth, honesty, an incredible experience in public defense that makes her a light.

Lenora continues to exhibit her passion for public defense by way of community outreach and working with public defndence offices around the nation. Her knowledge of the criminal justice system and her unwavering commitment to public service for so many years all make her the very best candidate for the Public Defender in Orange and Osceola County.”

“I am SO proud to endorse my friend and fellow PD-9 alum Lenora Easter for Public Defender. I met Lenora in 2008 when I first started working at the 9th Judicial Circuit Public Defender’s Office. She started working there before me and welcomed me to the office with open arms. She was an amazing teacher, colleague and mentor. Most importantly, she provided me with advice on being an effective advocate for our clients. There were times I would get frustrated with outcomes of cases and Lenora’s office was a safe space for me (and so many others) to remind us of the important role we play in the Criminal Justice System.

While at the office, she co-authored a training manual for incoming new Assistant Public Defenders (APDs) to have as a guide as they navigated court. I also witnessed her try a media case (which she ultimately won). Watching her unmatched skills and creative strategies during that trial were truly impressive. She left PD9 after 5 years of service and went on to gain more knowledge/experience from around the country that she will now bring back home to PD9. Her work in the public defense space has earned her numerous awards and accolades. But I was so honored to publicly THANK her, in 2021, during an award ceremony when she was recognized as the Distinguished Alumni Recipient (Social Justice Award) from her alma-mater, Barry Law School.

Lenora’s dedication to the role of the Public Defender’s Office is unmatched! She is the only candidate that will come with the experience and skills to elevate the office from where it is now because she did this at the Bronx Defenders. She will fill this seat with passion, dedication, knowledge, and experience. Please support Lenora Easter for Public Defender- WOO HOO!!!”

“I am so happy to endorse Lenora for Public Defender of the 9th Circuit! She has always done right by the communities she serves and her dedication and compassion are exemplary of putting community first! This is the change we need. She is the one to make it happen.”

“I wholeheartedly endorse Lenora Easter as the best candidate for Public Defender of Orange and Osceola counties. Seven years ago, I had a transplant while attending Seminole State College, working towards a criminal justice degree. Although I didn’t know them personally, Lenora Easter and her mother, Linda Perkins, reached out to me during a critical time. Their unexpected visit to the hospital after my surgery demonstrated Lenora’s exceptional integrity, caring nature, and compassion. She even offered her school books to support my education

Lenora is not just a woman who strives for excellence; she consistently goes above and beyond to get the job done. Her dedication, empathy, and unwavering commitment to helping others make her the ideal candidate for Public Defender. I support her 1000% and urge you to vote for Lenora Easter in August 2024. She is the leader we need!”