Public Defender

The Wayne County Public Defender’s Office represents those adult individuals who have been charged with a criminal offense and are determined to be indigent. In addition, the Public Defender’s Office also represents juvenile offenders.

Application for Legal Representation

If you cannot afford an attorney, you may fill out an Application for Legal Representation at the Public Defender’s Office. You must provide proof of income and any papers that you have pertaining to your charge. If you are eligible, you will be provided with representation by the Public Defender’s Office. Please call to schedule an appointment. The office hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Proceedings Public Defenders Provide Counsel For

A Public Defender must represent any person whose indigence prevents him from obtaining counsel for the following proceedings:

  • Juvenile delinquency proceedings
  • Critical pretrial identification proceedings
  • State habeas corpus proceedings
  • Common  Pleas Court Trial, from pre-trial motions through post-trial motions
  • Superior Court and Pennsylvania Supreme Court appeals
  • Post conviction proceedings at both the trial and appellate levels
  • Preliminary hearings
  • Criminal extradition proceedings
  • Mental health proceedings
  • PFA contempt hearings
  • Probation and parole proceedings, including revocation
  • Any other situation where representation is constitutionally required