What is a public defender?

A public defender is an attorney who works for the government to provide legal representation for people who cannot afford to hire an attorney. In Hawaii, public defenders are provided by the Office of the Public Defender, which is a public agency that provides legal representation for those who cannot afford counsel. Public defenders typically handle criminal matters, such as felonies and misdemeanors, and handle appeals from those matters. They also handle civil matters, such as bankruptcy proceedings, appeals, child protection cases, and guardianship proceedings. Public defenders provide legal advice, represent clients in court, and provide advice and legal assistance to those who qualify for their services. They also interview witnesses, investigate facts, negotiate pleas, and file motions on behalf of their clients. Public defenders provide a valuable service to those who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. They are typically lawyers that have a strong commitment to the pursuit of justice and are highly-trained professionals. Without public defenders, many of those who need legal representation would not be able to get it.

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