The Washington County Public Defender's office provides representation to persons accused or convicted of a crime who cannot afford private counsel in the Fourth Judicial District - Washington and Madison counties. Their goal is to provide effective and impartial defense legal services and to protect the Constitutional rights of defendants. Public defenders are requested and appointed by your Judge during arraignment. The judge determines if you are eligible for a public defender based on your current financial situation. The Office of the Public Defender is not permitted by law to provide legal advice until officially appointed. They are only appointed for criminal cases including felonies, misdemeanors, and mental health hearings. As per the Public Defender's Office you must call them within two weeks after your arraignment to make an appointment with your attorney. If you do not meet with your attorney to assist in the preparation of your trial, the Judge may revoke your bond and place you in jail until your next court date. For more information, please contact the Washington County Public Defender's Office.