Office of the Public Defender – State of Hawaii – Honolulu, HI

Protecting the Rights of Hawaii’s Citizens

The Office of the Public Defender for the State of Hawaii is the primary agency responsible for providing legal counsel to indigent persons charged with criminal offenses. Established in 1970, it was one of the first statewide public defender systems in the nation. The Oahu Office, located in the Iwilei district of Honolulu, serves as the main hub for legal defense services on the island. The office is staffed by a dedicated team of attorneys who are passionate about justice and equality. They believe that financial status should not determine the quality of justice a person receives. Whether facing a misdemeanor traffic violation or a serious felony charge, clients can rely on the Public Defender’s office for skilled and zealous representation.

Scope of Legal Services

The Public Defender’s office covers a broad spectrum of cases within the state court system, organized into specialized divisions to ensure expert handling of each matter.

• Felony Division: Handling serious criminal charges in Circuit Court, including assault, theft, and drug offenses.
• District Court Division: Representing clients in misdemeanor cases, including DUI/OVUII, traffic crimes, and petty misdemeanors.
• Family Court Division: providing counsel for juvenile delinquency cases and domestic violence matters.
• Appellate Division: Handling appeals to the Hawaii Intermediate Court of Appeals and the Hawaii Supreme Court.

A Pillar of the Justice System

While you cannot simply ”hire” a Public Defender, understanding their role is crucial if you find yourself in legal trouble without funds. The court determines eligibility based on income and assets. If you qualify, an attorney from this office will be appointed to your case. These attorneys are in court every day, giving them unparalleled experience with the judges, prosecutors, and procedures of the Hawaii judicial system. They are committed to safeguarding individual rights and ensuring fair treatment for all clients. If you are seeking to find a criminal lawyer but cannot afford private counsel, applying for a Public Defender is a vital step in protecting your future.

Convenient Iwilei Location

The Oahu office is located at the Nimitz Center, a commercial complex in the Iwilei area. This location is distinct from the downtown courts but offers a more accessible environment for client meetings, with ample parking and easy transit access. The office handles the administrative and legal work for thousands of cases annually, serving as a critical resource for the community.