What kinds of cases does the Office of Public Defender handle?
Attorneys from the Office of Public Defender represent adults charged with crimes (misdemeanor or felony) or violations of probation; and minors (persons under 18) charged in the juvenile court. Public defenders do not represent persons accused of traffic violations or any code infraction which cannot result in a jail sentence.

Finally, public defenders are also sometimes appointed for representation of persons potentially subject to LPS proceedings under the relating to involuntary civil mental health commitments.

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1. What should I do if I am arrested or I believe I am under suspicion in a police investigation?
2. What is a public defender?
3. What kinds of cases does the Office of Public Defender handle?
4. What will it cost to be represented by a public defender?
5. How do I get copies of my police reports?
6. What happens at my first court appearance?
7. Can I get a public defender to represent me in a civil, family law, or immigration case?