Public defense & appointed counsel
Find the relevant court or public-defense office and understand its published appointment process. The responsible court or office decides eligibility.
UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS. PREPARE YOUR INFORMATION.
Find the right public office.
Bring a clearer picture.
Research public defenders, court-appointed counsel and civil legal aid using the court and location that matter to your situation. Keep a private, organized packet you can review and provide to your lawyer.
Civil legal aid & other help
Explore verified civil legal-aid contacts and published intake options for the subject you choose. Acceptance and coverage must be confirmed by the provider.
Already have a lawyer? Prepare your packet.
Organize your notices, factual notes, source research and dates you confirm. Review what belongs in your packet before generating a PDF.
Download and deliver it yourself
Download the reviewed preparation PDF and any original files your lawyer requests. Confirm their contact details and secure delivery instructions independently.
Your folder stays under your control
Requesting research does not appoint a lawyer or contact an office. The court or responsible office confirms eligibility and appointment. Review your packet before downloading it; confirm the recipient and their accepted delivery method. A packet includes a document index, while originals remain separate downloads or part of your private folder backup.
Nothing is shared automatically. Public-defense research is available by location, but coverage and verified contacts vary; this is not a certified directory of every U.S. office.
Official starting points
U.S. Courts Defender Services · Federal defender office websites by district · USAGov legal aid resources
Federal, state, local and tribal systems have different processes. We research the relevant official source before explaining the published route.