The Public Defender?s Office defends indigent persons charged with violations of law that could result in incarceration upon conviction and provides representation to indigent parties in Family Court matters. The Public Defender is appointed by the County Executive and is subject to confirmation by the County Legislature. Assistant Public Defenders and staff are appointed by the Public Defender and also are approved by the County Legislature.

Our Responsibilities:

• Provide legal representation at criminal court trials, Family Court trials, and appellate court levels for indigent parties.
• Participate, when appropriate, with prosecution and law enforcement officials in alternative sentencing programs which divert defendants from incarceration.