NCJ Number
152907
Date Published
1993
Length
49 pages
Annotation
This Annual Report of the Maryland Office of the Public Defender, which covers fiscal year 1993 (July 1, 1992-June 30, 1993), presents the office's organizational structure, its various vital functions, and its means of adapting to changing and growing demands.
Abstract
In fiscal year 1993, increased crime has tested the ability of the Public Defender to maintain and improve its constitutionally mandated services while remaining within its budget. The office has succeeded in delivering more efficient and higher quality legal services. The Public Defender provides legal representation for eligible indigents in criminal and juvenile proceedings beginning prior to presentment before a commissioner or judge and extending to any proceedings where incarceration is possible pursuant to a judicial commitment of individuals to a public or private institution. Investigations are made to determine the eligibility to receive legal services from the Public Defender. The office also collects court-ordered reimbursement fees, and liens are executed when necessary to protect the interests of the State. The Public Defender also provides investigative and technical assistance to any staff attorneys and panel attorneys appointed to represent an indigent person. This report describes the operations of the office's various programs, including general administration, each of the 12 districts, the Child in Need of Assistance Division, Appellate Division and Collateral Review, Involuntary Institutionalization Services (Mental Health Division), and the Capital Defense Division. Appended statistics include the number of cases opened by district and division, and workload and budget summary, positions authorized, collections, court ordered fees, and a revenue breakdown.