Harris County commissioners have unanimously selected Judge Genesis Draper, a respected criminal court judge and former public defender, as the next Chief Public Defender. Set to take office on July 7, Draper will succeed the retiring Alex Bunin, inheriting a nationally recognized office and aiming to significantly expand its capacity to provide legal defense services and tackle the county's court case backlog.
During their court meeting on June 12, Harris County commissioners reached a unanimous decision to appoint Judge Genesis Draper as the next Chief Public Defender. Draper, a well-regarded criminal court judge and former public defender, is set to officially take on the role on July 7, succeeding Alex Bunin, who will retire in December after 15 years of dedicated service.
“We are at a crucial juncture where the foundations of fairness and equality are under scrutiny,” Draper stated. “I’m privileged to take part in this endeavor and continue the important work that Chief Bunin initiated.”
Draper has accumulated over 13 years of experience serving as a public defender, as well as six years in the role of a judge, which he brings to this new position. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Spelman College and her Juris Doctor from the University of Texas at Austin School of Law.
Founded in 2011, the Harris County Public Defender’s Office (HCPD) offers legal defense services for those in need, including representation in mental health and appellate cases. Under Bunin’s leadership, the office emerged as a national benchmark, introducing groundbreaking initiatives such as: a training program for new defense lawyers that has gained national recognition, complimentary legal education for the Texas State Bar, professional clothing services for individuals involved in jury trials, presence at preliminary bail proceedings and numerous individuals have been cleared due to unreliable forensic findings.
District 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones commended Draper as a “warrior for justice,” highlighting her integrity, experience, and dedication to systemic reform. “Justice runs through your veins,” Briones stated.
Commissioner Rodney Ellis from Precinct 1 emphasized that the appointment marks a crucial step toward the county's goal of halving the court case backlog. “This is crucial for handling a greater number of cases and guaranteeing that everyone receives the equitable trial they are entitled to,” he stated.
Harris County has allocated $57.6 million for fiscal year 2025-26 to enhance the capacity of the HCPD as part of its expansion efforts. Initiatives involve expanding the legal team and launching programs aimed at assisting clients in expunging criminal records and tackling fundamental social issues.
Under Draper's leadership, the office is poised to expand its influence and effectiveness, aiming to address at least half of the assigned criminal cases—a notable increase from current figures.
