In 2021, NACDL advocated for the passage of A5689 / S1279, legislation to streamline the assignment of appellate counsel for criminal defendants by allowing poor person status to continue on appeal upon an attorney certification. The bill also expands the right to appellate counsel to any eligible defendant in a criminal action, rather than a trial. This legislation was signed into law on November 15, 2021.
Appellate Representation
NACDL advocated for the passage of legislation to streamline the assignment of appellate counsel for indigent defendants appealing their convictions.
