As a result of U.S. Supreme Court decision in Gideon V. Wainwright the Pennsylvania General Assembly enacted the Public Defender Act in 1968. This act established the duties of the office.
Responsibilities
The Public Defender is responsible for furnishing legal counsel to any person who, for lack of sufficient funds, is unable to obtain legal counsel in any situation where representation is constitutionally guaranteed. In general, a person is entitled to legal counsel whenever that individual’s personal liberty is at stake. This would include capital crimes, misdemeanor and felony offenses, summary offenses that carry a mandatory sentence of incarceration and commitment proceedings under the Mental Health Procedures Act.
In Warren County, eligibility for public defender services is based on federal poverty guidelines. Income, family financial responsibilities and the nature of the charges are all considered in determining qualification for legal representation by the public defender.
Client Interviews
Client interviews are conducted Monday through Friday from 8:30 am until 3:45 pm. Every applicant must bring a copy of their charges and verification of income or support.