Ramsey County Public Defender - St Paul, MN

About Ramsey County Public Defender

The Ramsey County Public Defender's Office, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a critical component of the state's justice system, dedicated to providing high-quality legal representation to individuals who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. As part of the Minnesota Board of Public Defense, this office ensures that the constitutional right to counsel is upheld for all citizens, regardless of their financial status. The team of skilled attorneys works tirelessly to defend the indigent accused in adult criminal cases, juvenile delinquency matters, and child protection proceedings. If you are facing criminal charges and lack the funds to find a lawyer, the Public Defender's Office acts as your voice in the legal system, advocating for fair treatment and due process.

Services and Representation

The office provides comprehensive legal defense services across various areas of law. Key responsibilities include:

• Adult Criminal Defense: Representing individuals charged with felonies, gross misdemeanors, and misdemeanors in Ramsey County District Court.
• Juvenile Defense: Advocating for minors involved in delinquency cases, focusing on rehabilitation and the best interests of the child.
• Child Protection: Representing parents or children in CHIPS (Children in Need of Protection or Services) cases where family separation is a potential outcome.
• Probation Violations: Defending clients accused of violating the terms of their probation, aiming to prevent revocation and incarceration.

Mission and Values

The mission of the Ramsey County Public Defender is to protect the liberty and dignity of their clients. The attorneys here are not just court-appointed representatives; they are passionate defenders of justice who handle thousands of cases annually. They understand the systemic challenges their clients face and work to connect them with social services and community resources. While you generally cannot choose a specific public defender to hire an attorney directly, the court appoints these qualified professionals to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Eligibility for representation is determined by the court based on financial need.

Office Location

The main administration and adult division office is located in the Town Square Tower in downtown St. Paul. This central location allows public defenders to move quickly between their offices and the nearby courthouse, ensuring they are available for hearings and client meetings.