The Evolution of Public Defenders in the U.S. Legal System

The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to an attorney for those who can't afford one, public defenders now represent up to 80% of people charged with crimes in the U.S. This episode explores how public defenders became essential to the criminal legal system and what changes are needed for them to serve everyone effectively.

Evolution of Public Defenders in the U.S.

The evolution of public defenders in the U.S. from a 'nice-to-have' to a crucial component of the criminal legal system, now representing up to 80% of individuals charged with crimes.