Westchester County has announced the appointment of Stephanie Perez to the position of Administrator of the Independent Office of Assigned Counsel (OAC). Perez has previously held roles as Acting Administrator and Deputy Administrator, where she gained extensive experience. The OAC provides mandatory legal representation for individuals in criminal and family courts in Westchester.
County Executive Ken Jenkins expressed confidence in Perez’s new role, stating, “Stephanie Perez is more than deserving of this promotion, and she brings with her both experience, as well as a strong commitment to ensuring representation for those who may not be able to afford an attorney on their own. I am confident that under Perez’s leadership, we will continue to see our Office of Assigned Counsel ensure fairness and access to justice for all as they navigate the legal system.”
Stephanie Perez, reflecting on her appointment, stated: “Having served as the Deputy Administrator for the past two years I have had the pleasure of helping to create the foundation for the establishment of the Office of Assigned Counsel. I am incredibly proud of the Office and what we have created, and all of the success we have achieved. I humbly accept the appointment as Administrator and am eager to continue working towards the success of the Office and the panel as a whole. My sincere thanks go to the County Executive, the Board of Directors, and the Board of Legislators for entrusting me with this duty.”
Perez is set to oversee a panel of more than 250 lawyers, which is the largest provider of such legal representation in Westchester County. The OAC’s responsibilities include ensuring that panel attorneys are well-qualified, have necessary resources, and are compensated according to New York State Law.
