Our Story

About Shield Defenders

Founded in 2020 with a mission to provide real legal representation—not just advice—to underserved communities that have been historically left behind by the justice system.

Executive Summary

Shield Defenders is a national legal empowerment platform founded in 2020 to close the justice gap for underserved and middle-income communities. Built on a foundation of advocacy, equity, and access, Shield Defenders offers affordable legal protection through subscription-based memberships that provide direct access to a nationwide network of attorneys. Our services span criminal defense, civil rights litigation, eviction defense, estate planning, and small business legal support—backed by our trademarked call to action: #TalkToMyAttorney®.

Millions of Americans lack access to competent legal representation due to high costs, systemic barriers, and lack of awareness. Shield Defenders exists to change that. We give everyday people the same legal power and strategic defense traditionally reserved for the wealthy—when it matters most. Whether facing arrest, a housing crisis, discrimination, or navigating family and estate issues, members have a trusted legal ally at their side.

What makes Shield Defenders different is not only what we do, but why we do it. We are culturally relevant, justice-focused, and deeply rooted in the communities we serve. We don't just provide access—we provide leverage. Through legal literacy education, community advocacy, and reduced-cost attorney partnerships, we empower our members to defend their rights and protect their futures with confidence.

Shield Defenders is a movement. A modern legal safety net. A response to injustice. And a game-changer for families, gig workers, small businesses, and anyone who's ever felt powerless in the legal system. We're here to restore that power—one member, one case, one community at a time.

Our Mission

To empower underserved communities with affordable, proactive legal protection and real-time access to experienced attorneys—because justice should never be a luxury.

Our Vision

A future where every person—regardless of income or background—can say with confidence: "Talk to my attorney."

Our Principles

Our Core Values

These principles guide everything we do at Shield Defenders.

Access

We break down barriers to legal representation, making quality legal services available to everyone.

Empowerment

We equip our members with tools, knowledge, and legal allies to navigate the justice system with confidence.

Justice

We stand firm against systemic inequality and injustice, advocating for fair treatment under the law.

Community

We serve, protect, and uplift the communities we belong to, understanding their unique needs and challenges.

Integrity

We uphold the highest standards of legal professionalism and trust in all our interactions.

Excellence

We maintain the highest standards of legal representation and client service.

Our Team

Our Leadership Team

Meet the dedicated professionals leading Shield Defenders' mission.

Marcus Johnson

Marcus Johnson

Founder & CEO

Former public defender with 15 years of experience in criminal justice reform.

Tanya Williams

Tanya Williams

Chief Legal Officer

Civil rights attorney with expertise in housing discrimination and police misconduct cases.

David Chen

David Chen

Chief Operating Officer

Tech entrepreneur focused on creating accessible platforms for social justice.

Amara Rodriguez

Amara Rodriguez

Director of Community Outreach

Community organizer and advocate with deep roots in grassroots legal empowerment.

James Washington

James Washington

Head of Attorney Network

Former law firm partner dedicated to expanding legal access through innovative partnerships.

Sophia Patel

Sophia Patel

Chief Technology Officer

Technology leader specializing in secure, user-friendly platforms for legal services.

Our Impact

Since our founding in 2020, Shield Defenders has made a significant impact in communities across the nation.

25,000+

Members Protected

500+

Network Attorneys

35+

States Served

Our Elevator Pitch

Shield Defenders is a national legal membership platform providing affordable, full-scale legal protection to underserved and middle-income communities. From criminal defense to civil rights, eviction support to estate planning, our members get real legal power—fast. With a trusted network of attorneys, discounted services, and our signature promise, #TalkToMyAttorney®, we turn everyday people into legally protected powerhouses. Justice starts here.