WEST CHESTER, PA — Chester County has named longtime public defender Susanna DeWese as its next chief public defender, selecting a 23-year veteran of the office to succeed Nathan Schenker upon his retirement next month.
DeWese, who currently serves as first assistant public defender, will assume the role on Aug. 5, the same day Schenker retires after years leading the office.
The appointment keeps leadership within the Public Defender’s Office, where DeWese has spent more than two decades representing indigent defendants and, for the past six years, helping oversee daily operations, staff supervision, budgeting, grant administration, training, and strategic planning.
County Administrator Erik Walschburger cited DeWese’s experience managing the office and her familiarity with its operations as key factors in the appointment.
“Susanna brings more than two decades of public defense experience to this role,” Walschburger stated. “Her extensive institutional knowledge and commitment to high-quality client representation will serve the office and the County well.”
Walschburger also recognized Schenker’s tenure, stating, “We deeply appreciate Nathan Schenker’s many years of service and dedication to representing clients with fairness, dignity, and respect.”
DeWese, a graduate of Rosemont College and Villanova University School of Law, said the office’s mission extends beyond legal representation.
“The Public Defender’s Office plays a vital role in our justice system by ensuring that every person has access to effective legal representation, regardless of their circumstances,” DeWese stated. “I am honored to lead this office and work with our talented staff to continue serving our clients and the Chester County community.”
A resident of the Borough of West Chester, DeWese will become chief public defender as the office prepares for its first leadership transition in several years.
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