what is evidence based advocacy?

Simply put, Evidence-based advocacy is a natural companion to holistic criminal defense - it is an approach to legal work that emphasizes the practical application of the findings of the best available research.

Holistic criminal defense addresses the entire circumstances in the accused persons’ life in an effort to identify the circumstances that placed the person in a position to suffer negative consequences. Under the traditional Bronx model, Holistic Criminal Defense involves partnering with mental health professionals, public resources, and social services to help address life circumstances that create the environment ripe for a criminal accusation. Evidence-based advocacy takes this approach to the next level by applying the latest articles, research, and peer-reviewed results to package the information learned through holistic criminal defense in the most effective way to move a judge or a jury to action.

The Delaware County Public Defender’s Office embraces this holistic perspective and is proud to have a full-time social worker on staff who direct applies the principles everyday. The Delaware County Public Defender’s Office is an incubator for evidence-based advocacy and skilled trial work.

As I considered a  business name that would speak to what my purpose as a lawyer, instructor, and consultant would be in a world where I am no longer a partner at The Law Office of Brian Jones, LLC, I landed on Evidence Based Advocacy, LLC because the reliance upon concepts and strategies that are derived or informed by objective, scientific research is a pillar of my practice of law, and my work as a storytelling instructor.   

One year after founding Evidence Based Advocacy, LLC, I am proud of the growth my agency has experienced, including multiple workshops - in person and online - as a Community Engagement Instructor for The Moth and four private consulting contracts including one onsite workshop for a ten-person law firm, all while maintaining my commitments as a public defender and member of a team of trial lawyers representing the indigent community of Delaware County.

What comes next? You can bet I am reviewing the metrics and data of the past year and assessing how I can continue to grow the resources and opportunities I offer through Evidence Based Advocacy, LLC.