To promote fairness and justice through member education, services and support, public outreach and a commitment to quality representation for all.

To provide an appropriate upstate organization representing those lawyers who are actively engaged in the defense of criminal cases;

To resist proposed legislation or rules which would curtail such rights and to promote sound alternatives;

To promote educational activities to improve the skills and knowledge of lawyers engaged in the defense of criminal cases;

To improve the judicial system and to urge the selection and appointment to the bench of well-qualified and experienced lawyers;

To improve the correctional system and to seek more effective rehabilitation opportunities for those convicted of crimes;

To promote constant improvement in the administration of criminal justice.