Information For Defense

Defense professionals are often the lone voice advocating for people accused of crimes. They are tasked with explaining the process and decisions facing accused people and with ensuring that courts uphold constitutional rights and protections. However, in many jurisdictions, people are not represented at their first appearance hearing; in others, defense counsel may not have sufficient time or information to provide meaningful representation. This is despite the research showing many benefits, including fewer people detained before trial, reduced use of money bond, and an increase in people reporting their perception that the proceedings are fair and, as a result, greater compliance with court-ordered pretrial release conditions.