Lack of Access to Quality Legal Representation

Monique Joseph, holistic services director for Restoring Justice, a non-profit that offers "holistic and loving legal defense and social services" for people unable to afford adequate representation, said: "If you're accused of a crime and you can't afford $40,000 to $50,000 [to pay for a lawyer to prove you're innocent], then the court system will appoint you one."

In Harris County, many indigent defendants lack adequate representation due to a lack of resources, training, and oversight. The court system appoints lawyers to prove innocence, but many indigent defendants do not receive the same level of representation. The county's Public Defender's Office and court-appointed private attorneys represent 80 to 90% of indigent people. However, there is no oversight or support system for these private attorneys, who often fail to provide basic representation while getting fully paid. 

Defense attorneys lack investigators, experts, and assistants, leading to cases being resolved without the defense engaging in any investigation. Harris County has recently added a Managed Assigned Council for misdemeanors, ensuring that court-appointed attorneys follow all required and expected standards.

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