1. The public defense function, including
the selection, funding, and payment of defense counsel, is independent.
2. Where the caseload is sufficiently high,
the public defense delivery system consists of both a defender
office and the active participation of the private bar.
3. Clients are screened for eligibility, and
defense counsel is assigned and notified of appointment, as
soon as feasible after clients’ arrest, detention, or
request for counsel.
4. Defense counsel is provided sufficient
time and a confidential space with which to meet with the client.
5. Defense counsel’s workload is controlled
to permit the rendering of quality representation.
6. Defense counsel’s ability, training,
and experience match the complexity of the case.
7. The same attorney continuously represents
the client until completion of the case.
8. There is parity between defense counsel
and the prosecution with respect to resources and defense counsel
is included as an equal partner in the justice system.
9. Defense counsel is provided with and required
to attend continuing legal education.
10. Defense counsel is supervised and systematically
reviewed for quality and efficiency according to nationally
and locally adopted standards.
