Protecting Constitutional Rights Since 1976

“Lawyers in criminal courts are necessities, not luxuries. The right of one charged with crime to counsel may not be deemed fundamental and essential to fair trials in some countries, but it is in ours.” 

-- Justice Hugo Black, Gideon v. Wainwright

“The Public Defender epitomizes why so many have entered law school. They seek not fame or fortune. Instead, they seek the higher level of professional satisfaction of representing the people who most need legal representation.

Public Defenders stand alone, armed only with their wits, training and dedication. Inspired by their clients' hope, faith and trust, they are the warriors and valkyries of those desperately in need of a champion.

Public Defenders, by protecting the downtrodden and the poor, shield against the infringement of our protections and, in reality, protect us all.”

--Hightower v. State, 592 So.2d 689 (Fla. 3d DCA 1991) (Gersten J., dissenting.)