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

SOURCE www.npr.org
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.

Key Points

  • The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to an attorney
  • Public defenders have become essential in the criminal legal system
  • Changes are needed to ensure public defenders can effectively serve all individuals

Pros

  • 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

Cons

  • Historically, many people went without legal representation
  • Challenges remain in ensuring public defenders can effectively serve everyone