Resources

What is Indigent Defense?

The indigent defense system, also known as the public defense system, refers to the structures and processes implemented by policymakers and judges to appoint attorneys to people charged with crimes who are too poor to hire attorneys. If a court finds that a person is “indigent,” it means that the person does not have the financial ability to hire an attorney to defend them.

The materials below were originally developed for our Ambassador Program and explain the indigent defense system, right to counsel, and point to more videos, articles, and books for additional reference.

Indigent Defense Timeline

This timeline invites you to navigate the Harris County criminal legal system system through the lens of our clients.