Los Angeles, CA, January 29, 2025  – The Association of Deputy District Attorneys (ADDA) announces that Michele Hanisee has stepped down as President of the ADDA after eight years of exemplary service, as she takes on a new role in the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office as Special Assistant in charge of Legislative Affairs.

Elected to five consecutive terms, Michele’s tenure as President is marked by transformative achievements that elevated the ADDA’s profile and solidified its reputation as a trusted and influential labor organization in Southern California. Under her leadership, the ADDA established itself as a bipartisan authority on public policy and a compelling voice on issues affecting public safety.

“Michele’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the ADDA into a labor organization that has consistently fought above its weight class, advocating tirelessly for Deputy District Attorneys and the pursuit of justice,” said Ryan Erlich, President of the ADDA.

During her presidency, Michele championed the rights and interests of her fellow Deputy District Attorneys, skillfully navigating a challenging four-year period under the administration of former District Attorney George Gascón. With the support of a strong Board, she led the ADDA to significant accomplishments, including:

• Enhancing the ADDA’s Influence: The ADDA became widely recognized for providing factual, persuasive, and authoritative content that shaped public discourse and informed critical debates on public policy.
• Building a Reputation for Excellence: The ADDA earned respect as a reliable source of accurate and compelling information, gaining credibility with the public, community leaders, policymakers, and law enforcement officials.
• Fostering Stakeholder Engagement: Michele prioritized continuous communication with stakeholders, ensuring the ADDA’s voice was heard in discussions that matter most to public safety and justice.

Under Michele’s stewardship, the ADDA’s influence extended far beyond traditional labor organization roles. Its contributions to public policy debates ensured that policymakers and the public were equipped with clear, fact-based arguments on issues impacting safety and justice in Los Angeles County.

“Michele has been a trailblazer for our union, setting a standard for dedication, integrity, and vision,” said Amy Pentz, ADDA Vice President. “Her commitment to justice and to her colleagues has left an indelible mark on the ADDA and the community we serve.”

As Michele transitions to her new role in the DA’s office, the ADDA celebrates her legacy and looks forward to continuing her mission of ensuring justice and public safety remain at the forefront of public policy.

Media Contact:  Eric Rose Eric@ekapr.com

About the ADDA

The Association of Deputy District Attorneys (ADDA) is the collective bargaining agent representing nearly 800 Deputy District Attorneys working for the County of Los Angeles.