The Montana Department of Administration announced Wednesday that Brett Schandelson, Director of the Office of Public Defender (OPD), will step down from his position effective November 19, 2025.
Schandelson, who has served the agency for nearly eight years, began his tenure as Development and Operations Bureau Chief before being appointed Director in 2022. During his time at OPD, he oversaw major organizational improvements and initiatives aimed at strengthening Montana’s public defense system.
“I am deeply proud of what our OPD team has been able to accomplish, overcoming enormous challenges and building lasting systems for better public defense in Montana,” Schandelson said in a statement. “Thanks to the dedication and skill of this team, and our shared commitment to our mission, I have every confidence that OPD’s future will be bright, and the agency will continue to thrive in the years ahead. I want to thank the Governor, Director Giles, the Budget Director, and all of my colleagues for their invaluable support of me and OPD over the years.”
Governor Greg Gianforte praised Schandelson’s leadership and commitment to public service. “I’m grateful for Brett’s leadership at OPD,” Gianforte said. “He has been a stalwart defender of the constitutional rights of Montanans. I thank him for his service to the State of Montana and his commitment to a smooth transition at OPD going forward.”
By: BSH staff