How do I get a Public Defender?
A Public Defender must be appointed by the Court to represent you. If a court determines you are not financially able to retain private counsel, the court will appoint the Public Defender’s office to represent you.

In the case of a conflict of interest, or if the office has reached its maximum caseload, the court may appoint the Legal Defender’s Office, the Office of the Legal Advocate, or an attorney from the Office of Public Defense Services to represent you rather than the Public Defender’s Office.

By statute, the Public Defender’s Office is only appointed in criminal matters and mental health commitments. Public Defenders are not appointed for any civil cases.

Show All Answers

1. How do I get a Public Defender?
2. When will I meet with my Public Defender?
3. How can I help my attorney?
4. What type of cases does the Public Defender’s office handle?
5. Why was I told to contact your office within in 2 days of being released from jail?
6. Where and when can I get a copy of my police report?
7. What is a preliminary hearing?
8. What happens at the Initial Pretrial Conference?
9. Why was my hearing vacated?
10. Who has a right to file a notice of appeal?
11. How much time do I have to file a notice of appeal from a Superior Court case?
12. Who files the notice of appeal?
13. Who has a right to file a PCR (petition for post-conviction relief)?
14. How much time do I have to file a PCR?
15. I missed my court hearing, what do I do?
16. Can I get my attorney right now because I want to get my bond reduced?
17. How often should I expect to hear from my attorney?
18. I was told my case was “Scratched.” What does that mean?