Public Defender

Attorney

Defendants have the right to have an attorney present at all criminal hearings. If you are unable to hire an attorney due to financial circumstances, you may qualify for a public defender. You must be screened to determine eligibility. Do not assume an attorney will be appointed to assist you.

Screenings

Screening applications are accepted Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Court Clerk's office.

• Bring court documents with you to screening. The screener will need to know your next court date.
• You must be interviewed in person. Defendants may not be screened via telephone.
• Defendants should be screened at least two weeks prior to pre-trial hearing.
• If you qualify for a public defender, contact information will be provided at that time.