Celebrating Public Defenders and Support Staff

This statement was adapted from the statement read by Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson.

Saturday, March 18^th marks the 54^th Anniversary of the United States Supreme Court decision, Gideon v. Wainwright, where the Supreme Court unanimously ruled that states are required to provide counsel to defendants in criminal cases who are unable to pay their own attorneys.   

In recognition of this landmark case, the National Association for Public Defense has declared this “Public Defender Week.”  

This week, providers of indigent defense across the country are celebrating the important contributions public defenders and support staff make in protecting the rights of the accused. 

On March 16th, the staff of the Hennepin County Public Defender’s Office gathered on the 23^rd floor to commemorate the anniversary of the Gideon case. 

On behalf of all the Commissioners, we appreciate the dedication and exceptional work the Hennepin County Public Defender’s Office provides to our citizens and commend them for their commitment to work alongside all of our criminal justice partners. 

Please stop by to celebrate with the staff of the Hennepin County Public Defender’s Office.  Cake will be provided.