The Bronx Defenders announced Wednesday that Justine Olderman, a 17-year veteran of the public defender organization, has been selected as its new executive director. She most recently served as the organization's managing director, where she managed both day-to-day operations and programming for the organization.

A longtime head of the Defenders' criminal defense practice, Olderman oversaw the expansion of the division during her seven years at the helm, from 40 staff members handling 12,500 cases a year in 2008 to 100 handling 30,000 cases by 2015.

“Throughout her career, Justine Olderman has exemplified bold leadership and unwavering commitment to improving the delivery of indigent defense,” said Emery Celli Brinckerhoff & Abady partner Earl Ward, chairman for the organization's board, in a statement. “Her qualifications to serve as executive director were many, but four were unmatched: her dedication to clients, her devotion to our vibrant and zealous staff, her experience as an attorney and leader in public defense, and her vision for what lies ahead. We are excited about the future of The Bronx Defenders under Justine's leadership.”

Olderman officially takes over the position of executive director from Robin Steinberg. Steinberg recently launched The Bail Project, a national bail reform and advocacy organization that helps defendants who can't afford bail.

In a statement, Olderman said she was “profoundly humbled and honored” to step into the role.

“From staff attorney to managing director, I have been privileged to work side by side with Robin to push the boundaries of what a public defender office can and should be,” she said. “I have had the pleasure of working with incredibly talented advocates to grow this organization into a powerful force for justice. I could not be more thrilled to have been a part of our history and to now have an opportunity to chart the organization's future.”