Public Defender
Our Mission
The mission of the Public Defender Division is to ensure that the criminally accused are given the fundamental protection of the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Massachusetts Constitution. We believe that every client should not only receive zealous advocacy but respect and dignity as they deal with the potential loss of their liberty.
We are committed to meeting the needs if every client in all of their diversity. Our staff embodies advocates whom reflect the rich and cultural differences of our communities and we are wholly committed to serving the best interests of every client.
Serving The Public
The Sixth Amendment in the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to legal counsel in criminal cases, no matter a person’s ability to pay. When someone can’t afford a lawyer, they’re considered indigent. That’s where public defenders come in.
Public defenders represent people facing all kinds of charges. We work alongside social service advocates, investigators, and other experts to build strong, community-oriented defenses to pursue the best possible legal outcome for each client.
Criminal Appeal Referral Form
When assigned trial counsel files a notice of appeal following a criminal trial, a violation of probation hearing, or after a single justice has allowed an interlocutory appeal, counsel should download a Criminal Appeal Referral Form, complete it, and submit it by clicking on the “Submit” button at the end of the form, or by e-mailing it to appealform@publiccounsel.net.
Find a Public Defender
In Massachusetts, courts assign indigent clients to a Public Defender Office. Find contact information for each office, unit, and its staff in our directory.
Resources for Clients
In Massachusetts, courts assign indigent clients to a Public Defender Office. Find contact information for each office, unit, and its staff in our directory.
Resources for Attorneys
Find resources for criminal defense professionals maintained by CPCS and other third parties in our Resource Center.