Who qualifies for a Public Defender?
  1. Under the Indiana Constitution and the US Constitution’s Sixth Amendment, every person has the right to an attorney at no expense to you if you cannot afford one (in certain cases).  Criminal cases, mental health cases, child welfare cases and instance of juvenile court proceedings, and other cases where a possibility of incarceration is involved, are eligible for obtaining a public defender.   This is, by no means, an all inclusive list.
  2. In many cases the Judge presiding over your case will determine eligibility for the need of a public defender.   Before deciding whether a public defender can be used in your defense, questions about being able to financially afford a lawyer will be asked.

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1. Who qualifies for a Public Defender?
2. How do I obtain a Public Defender?
3. How do I find out information on my case?