Connecticut State Division of Public Defender Services

Members of the public have reported receiving calls, reportedly from the Judicial Branch of the Public Defender’s office, indicating that their loved one is in jail and they need to immediately send cash or provide a credit card number for bail. These calls are scams, so please do not send cash or provide your credit card number or any other personal information. A public defender would never call and ask for money or credit card information. If you receive such a call, contact the State Police in your state.

Child Protection

Child Protection Services ensures that children and indigent parents who require legal services and guardians ad litem in child protection, child custody and child support cases in Superior Court, receive high quality, competent and zealous representation.

History of Public Defenders

In 1963 the states weren't required to provide a lawyer in most criminal cases. Like thousands of people accused of a crime in Florida and elsewhere, Mr. Gideon had been required to go to trial alone, And like thousands, he had done his best, but it wasn't enough.