The maine prosecutors association (MPA) is seeking fundingunder the john R. Justice (JRJ) grant program to improve the recruitment and retention of state and federal public defenders and state…

The maine prosecutors association (MPA) is seeking fundingunder the john R. Justice (JRJ) grant program to improve the recruitment and retention of state and federal public defenders and state prosecutors. The association has been in existence for over 40 years, but was formally incorporated in maine on december 3, 2000 as a public benefit corporation to promote and improve criminal prosecution and the criminal justice system in the state of maine. Membership is to all district attorneys, the attorney general, all deputy or assistant district attorneys, and all deputy or assistant attorneys general assigned to the criminal division or the economic crimes division of the attorney generals office. Pursuant to its by-laws (article VIII, section 5) the MPA may accept federal funds for the general purpose or any special purpose of the association in connection with the improvement of the criminal justice system in maine. This program will be available to all qualifying state prosecutors, state public defenders and federal public defenders. The state of maine is in the process of changing its indigent defense system, going from a fully private criminal defense counsel that are contracted through the state to the establishment of public defenders offices. Award determinations will be based on program parameters established in law and by the united states department of justice, which applicants receive funding. The priority will be given to applicants with the least ability to repay their loans. 25 applicants will be selected. One hundred percent (100%) of the grant award will be used to provide student loan relief.