The application period for this program is currently closed.
One pressing challenge facing New Jersey's criminal justice system today is the retention of qualified prosecutors and public defenders. This program is designed to attract and retain talented attorneys in the service oriented public sector. Qualified attorneys who would be interested in public interest law often forego these careers because of the overwhelming student debt burden assumed during their education. Loan Redemption programs such as the John R. Justice Loan Redemption program are successful in attracting and retaining capable attorneys to careers that they might otherwise not consider.
This program is supported through a federal grant.
To qualify for loan repayment assistance, an applicant must:
Be currently employed full-time by the State of New Jersey as an eligible prosecutor or public defender, and
Have eligible outstanding federal student loan debt in good standing with each lender
Complete the application process and be selected to participate
Sign a service agreement committing to remain employed as an eligible public defender or prosecutor for at least three years.
For any additional information, please reach out to LoanRedemption@hesaa.org.
