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Public Defense
"Lawyers in criminal cases are necessities, not luxuries." - Gideon v. Wainwright, 1963
Reforms Litigation Scholarships Awards
Learn more about state level reforms and track bills in your state:
Strong Women, Bold Defense: A Journey Through the Legacy and Evolution of Women in Public Defense
In this webinar, we delve into the role of women in public defense today, examining the obstacles they still face and envisioning the path ahead. This webinar promises a comprehensive exploration of the subject, shedding light on the vital contributions of women throughout history and sparking discussions about the challenges and progress in the field.
NACDL Store
Show off your pride in your defense work with these stylish threads. While you check out the store, be sure to browse the vast selection of CLE programming and resource materials.
Everyone has the right to have a skilled and zealous advocate when they face a criminal accusation. However, in many states and localities people are left waiting months or more to have a lawyer assigned to their case. Through our amicus work and direct litigation, NACDL works to ensure the right to counsel is protected, advocating for the prompt appointment of counsel.
NACDL, in cooperation with WACDL, the NYU Center on Race, Inequality, and the Law, and Winston Strawn has filed a lawsuit in Wisconsin to address the state’s inability to timely provide access to counsel.
Lawsuit Info More on Systemic LItigation
It is critical to ensure public defense lawyers have access to high quality training. Through generous grant funding, NACDL is able to offer scholarships to help defray the costs of registration and travel. Interested in our scholarship program?
Want to help support training opportunities for public defense lawyers? Make a donation to NACDL’s Foundation for Criminal Justice.
Champion of Public Defense Award
NACDL honors individuals and organizations for exceptional efforts in making positive changes to local, county, state, or federal public defense systems with its Champion of Public Defense Award. Nominations for the 2026 Champion of Public Defense are now open.
Prior Awardees Nomination Form
Questions about NACDL's work in Public Defense, contact Director of Public Defense, Bonnie Hoffman.
BHoffman@nacdl.org
@GideonGuardian





