×

Public defenders deserve respect, resources

This past week, a public defender in Ward County once again cited a lack of resources and heavy case load for the need to delay a trial.

It is not the first time that public defenders have expressed alarm at their ability to do their jobs because of a shortage of resources.

These attorneys have a point. According to the above-referenced report in Minot Daily News this week, attorney Raissa Carpenter notes that the public defenders office is currently extremely short-staffed and its attorneys are “overwhelmed with work.” She wrote in her argument for a trial delay last week that there are currently two attorneys, one law student, two full-time administrative assistants and one part-time administrative assistant working in the office. A third lawyer has been hired and will start work in April. The office must handle hundreds of cases and calls every year. The State Legislature cut positions in the public defenders office during the last session from five to three full-time lawyers.

Ms. Carpenter’s arguments mimic those of public defenders everywhere.

Public defender challenges threaten our justice system. While they work often outside the spotlight, public defenders are the last line of defense for a civilized society. A society is judged not by how those with resources and power are treated; but rather by how those without those things are treated. That’s where public defenders come in. The cynical – perhaps “realistic” is a better description – will claim that justice is a commodity that can be bought and sold. Witness the conviction rate differential between those who can afford a private attorney and those who can’t; witness this state’s existential threat from public officials accused of crimes who somehow avoid prosecution.

One, public defenders warrant every consideration from the judiciary.

Two, prosecutors eager to take advantage of public defenders’ workload should be ashamed of themselves and called out for exploiting the system. This is not commentary on any specific case.

Three, it is a travesty to reduce the number of public defenders in communities facing increasing crime.

Unfortunately, the way many people view crime and accused criminals, the value of public defenders is little recognized. Historically, given that most justice systems in human history favor the wealthy and powerful the way ours does, public defenders should be lauded for their efforts.

Minot Daily News salutes public defenders as defenders of a just, free society. MDN urges consideration of the argument made herein.

Heroes in a righteous society take many forms.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today