Adopted 2022-23 Budget

Mission Statement

To courageously defend the accused. To demand equal justice for all. To empower our clients with inspired advocacy in the courtroom and community. We are on a mission to elevate public defense, one client at a time.

Department Budget Overview

From 1975 to 2022, the County contracted for public defense services with the Biggam, Christensen & Minsloff (BCM) law firm. On July 1, 2022, a new Office of the Public Defender (PDO) will provide public defense services for clients that cannot afford representation. In transitioning to a new model, the PDO is prioritizing continuity of representation for clients and minimizing disruption of justice system operations, with PDO legal, investigative, and administrative staff transitioning to County employment from BCM. The PDO will work with court, County, and community partners to provide holistic defense, including early representation, multidisciplinary teams, and seamless access to support services that address the root causes of system involvement.