Public Defender Office - Frederick, MD
The Public Defender Office in Frederick County represents indigent individuals facing criminal charges, safeguarding constitutional rights and liberty across local courts. Established originally in 1972 as part of the statewide Maryland Office of the Public Defender, District 11 provides dedicated courtroom defense from its office inside the Frederick County Courthouse.
Zealous Criminal Defense in Frederick County, Maryland
Facing criminal charges is an intimidating experience that threatens personal liberty, employment, and family stability. Situated inside the Frederick County Courthouse at 100 West Patrick Street, the Public Defender Office serves as District 11 of the Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD). Established in 1972 following the United States Supreme Court historic ruling in Gideon v. Wainwright and subsequent Maryland legislation, the office is dedicated to upholding the Sixth Amendment right to counsel. Their mission is straightforward yet vital: providing exceptional, client-centered defense representation to individuals accused of incarcerable offenses who lack the financial means to hire an attorney in the private market.
The Frederick County office is staffed by dedicated Assistant Public Defenders, paralegals, social workers, and core administrative professionals. Operating under regional leadership alongside District Public Defender Brian Hutchison, Supervising Attorney Ashley Sener in the District Court, and Supervising Attorney Jennifer Dayton in the Circuit Court, the team combines formidable trial capabilities with compassionate advocacy. When individuals are arrested or summoned for trial and urgently need a lawyer to protect their constitutional rights, the Public Defender Office ensures every client receives a vigorous defense before the bench and jury.
Comprehensive Criminal Defense Practice Areas
The attorneys at the Frederick Public Defender Office represent clients across every stage of the criminal justice system, from initial commissioner bail reviews through jury trials and post-disposition hearings:
- Misdemeanor and felony defense: Defending individuals accused of severe offenses in the District Court of Maryland and Circuit Court for Frederick County, ranging from simple misdemeanors to major felony indictments.
- DUI and DWI defense: Challenging the legality of traffic stops, field sobriety exercises, breathalyzer maintenance documentation, and chemical testing protocol across Frederick roadways.
- Drug crime defense: Providing aggressive representation against charges of controlled dangerous substance possession, distribution, and intent to distribute, while filing motions to suppress unconstitutional searches.
- Violent crime defense: Advocating fearlessly for individuals charged with second-degree assault, first-degree assault, armed robbery, weapons offenses, and domestic violence disputes.
- Theft and burglary defense: Protecting defendants accused of shoplifting, retail grand theft, residential burglary, auto theft, and property destruction.
- Traffic ticket and driving offenses: Defending clients against incarcerable traffic matters, including driving with a suspended or revoked license, reckless driving, and fleeing from law enforcement.
- Juvenile delinquency representation: Advocating for youth in juvenile court proceedings, working to keep minors out of detention and connecting them with rehabilitative community resources.
Holistic Representation and Client Support Services
A distinctive strength of the Maryland Office of the Public Defender is its commitment to holistic defense. Recognizing that involvement in the criminal justice system frequently stems from unaddressed mental health challenges, substance use disorders, or systemic poverty, the office pairs attorneys with professional social workers and peer specialists. These dedicated professionals assist clients with treatment placements, diversion program evaluations, and mitigation reports that help judges understand the full human context behind the charges. In addition, their staff handles bail review hearings, probation violation proceedings, and petitions for record expungement to help individuals rebuild their lives after court resolution.
To obtain legal representation, individuals must apply through the Frederick office or during initial detention intake, as representation is contingent on meeting Maryland statutory financial eligibility criteria. If you or a family member face criminal charges and need to find a lawyer who will fight for your freedom, contact the Public Defender Office at 100 West Patrick Street Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The office provides comprehensive services with bilingual Spanish capabilities to serve Frederick diverse community.
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Location & Access
Primary Address
Located in the historic center of downtown Frederick, Maryland, on West Patrick Street.
Building Location
Housed inside the 3-story Frederick County Courthouse (constructed in 1982), which features a landmark brick clock tower and sits adjacent to the scenic Carroll Creek Park.
Parking Details
Convenient public parking is available at the West Patrick Street Garage located nearby at 138 West Patrick Street, which sits right next to the courthouse. Some metered street parking can also be found on surrounding streets.
Public Transit
Served by Transit Services of Frederick County Route 40 (Waverley Transfer Facility); nearest stop is at West Patrick Street / Bentz Street.
Accessibility / Suite Access
Walk through the main secure entrance of the Frederick County Courthouse. Visitors must pass through the security screening station in the lobby. The Public Defender's Office and intake services are located inside the courthouse facility.