The New Jersey Holistic Representation Act establishes a collaborative representation model within the Office of the Public Defender, aimed at enhancing the legal support provided to individuals involved in the criminal justice system. This model, which has been successfully piloted in Atlantic, Monmouth, and Hudson counties, pairs public defender attorneys with non-attorney social service professionals, such as client services specialists, to address both legal and underlying personal issues that contribute to a client's involvement in the justice system. The act emphasizes a team-based approach, where the client team collaborates to provide comprehensive support, including mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, and housing assistance, while maintaining the confidentiality of communications between clients and non-attorney advocates.

Under the act, participation in the holistic representation model is voluntary and based on eligibility criteria set by the Office of the Public Defender. The Public Defender is tasked with developing training programs for staff on trauma-informed practices and ensuring that all personnel complete this training every three years. Additionally, the act mandates annual reporting to the Legislature, Governor, and Supreme Court on the program's implementation, participation data, and recommendations for improvements. This initiative aims to improve outcomes for public defender clients and reduce future involvement in the criminal justice system by addressing the root causes of their legal challenges.