Susanna DeWese
Chester County has appointed Susanna DeWese as the new Chief Public Defender. DeWese, who currently serves as First Assistant Public Defender, will assume the position on August 5, when current Chief Public Defender Nathan Schenker retires.
Chester County Administrator Erik Walschburger said, “Susanna brings more than two decades of public defense experience to this role. As the First Assistant Public Defender, she has helped oversee daily operations, staff supervision, budgeting, grant administration, training, and strategic planning for the Public Defender’s Office. Her extensive institutional knowledge and commitment to high-quality client representation will serve the office and the County well.
“We deeply appreciate Nathan Schenker’s many years of service and dedication to representing clients with fairness, dignity, and respect. We wish him well in retirement.”
DeWese has worked in the Public Defender’s Office for 23 years, the last six as First Assistant Public Defender. She is a graduate of Rosemont College and received her law degree from Villanova University School of Law.
DeWese said, “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. I am honored to lead this office and work with our talented staff to continue serving our clients and the Chester County community.”
DeWese is a resident of the Borough of West Chester.
