The DuPage County Public Defender's Office represents indigent individuals charged with a criminal offense in DuPage County. The representation begins only after the accused person requests the appointment of counsel by the Court, is shown to be indigent by filing an affidavit of assets and liabilities, and the Court, in a written order, directs that person is to be represented by the Public Defender's Office. The office is staffed by 40 licensed attorneys, as well as investigators, mental health clinicians and support staff.
Clients on bond are generally interviewed by investigators employed by the Public Defender's Office. Clients in custody are interviewed by the assigned Public Defender attorney, or by a Public Defender investigator.
An attorney from our office may also be appointed for those persons named as a party in juvenile delinquency or neglect actions in juvenile court, and persons subject to mental health commitment actions. Public Defender representation is not available for those facing non-jailable village ordinances or petty traffic offenses.
Operational challenges:
1. Reviewing police officer-worn body camera recordings: The SAFE-T Act requires all Illinois police officers to wear body cameras. In addition to reviewing arrest records and statements, attorneys with the Public Defender Office now need to review the recordings by all responding officers. This can be a time consuming task.
2. Staff shortage: For newly licensed criminal practice attorneys, the Public Defender's Office (as well as the States Attorney's Office) provides an excellent opportunity for courtroom experience. Unfortunately, in recent years an increasing number of new hires not only don't opt to make it a career, but soon choose to depart for the private sector.