Every week in Delaware County Courthouse, people facing some of the most stressful moments of their lives are now greeted by wagging tails and friendly faces. After running quietly since February, the courthouse therapy dog program — operated by PAWS for People and supported by the judiciary — is being formally launched with a press conference. The program was revived thanks to funding from local attorney Michael H. Fienman of Fienman Defense.
Press Conference Invitation
Reporters are invited to meet the dogs, handlers, and program leaders at the official launch press conference.
Date: November 6, 2025
Time: Noon
Location: Courthouse Steps, 201 W. Front Street, Media, PA
Great visuals and interview opportunities will be available.
“I’ve seen firsthand the difference therapy dogs can make inside a courthouse,” said Fienman. “I’m in court almost every day, and during a break at a different courthouse, a therapy dog and handler walked by. I reached out, petted the dog, and had a brief conversation with the handler.”
“When I stood up, I realized I felt unexpectedly calmer and more grounded than before. That experience has stayed with me — if it could ground me in that moment, imagine what it can do for people walking into court anxious, uncertain, or overwhelmed by the weight of the system. Everyday people deserve that kind of comfort.”
Therapy dogs are stationed outside Protection From Abuse (PFA) Court every Thursday and in Dependency Court on alternating Tuesdays and Wednesdays, offering comfort during some of the courthouse’s most difficult proceedings. Expansion may come gradually as resources allow.
The program, once cut due to budget constraints, was revived in 2025 with funding from Fienman. After a successful first year, it now has judicial cooperation to continue through 2026.
“PAWS for People is so grateful to Fienman Defense for providing the sponsorship to reintroduce this important program to Delaware County,” said Clarice Ritchie, PAWS for People’s Executive Director. “Therapy dogs offer a proven way to ease anxiety, and we’re thrilled that the community will once again benefit from their presence in the courthouse.”
About PAWS for People
PAWS for People is a nonprofit dedicated to providing individualized, therapeutic visits with gentle, affectionate pets. Its trained therapy teams visit over 200 sites, including schools, hospitals, eldercare facilities, and now Delaware County Courthouse, to bring comfort and connection.
About Fienman Defense
Fienman Defense, led by attorney Michael H. Fienman, is a southeastern Pennsylvania–based law firm representing individuals facing criminal charges, professional licensing issues, and regulatory matters. With offices in Media, Philadelphia, Doylestown, and Narberth, the firm has deep ties to communities across the region and proudly supports initiatives that promote well-being in the justice system.
Media Contacts
Kathryn A. Meloni, Esq.
K. Meloni Law, LLC
117–119 North Olive Street, 2nd Floor
Media, PA 19063
Phone: 610-565-1260
Email: KMeloni@KMeloniLaw.com
Website: www.KMeloniLaw.com
Michael H. Fienman, Esq.
Fienman Defense, LLC
Media • Philadelphia • Doylestown • Narberth
Phone: 610-565-4761
Email: michael@forgoodlaw.com
Website: www.philadelphiacriminalattorney.com