San Diego County, CA Public Defender’s Main Office

The mission of the San Diego County Public Defender's Office is to protect the rights, liberties, and dignity of all persons in San Diego County and maintain the integrity and fairness of the American Justice System by providing the finest legal representation in the cases entrusted to them. The Public Defenders provide quality legal assistance to individuals charged with a crime in state court who are financially unable to retain private counsel. Mental health and juvenile court matters are handled by special units within the office. The office proudly reflects the diversity and high level of commitment necessary for their mission. At your first court appearance, there is usually a "duty public defender" who is there to assist you. If you are out of custody, the court will have you fill out a financial declaration, under penalty of perjury, to determine if you qualify for a public defender or if you are financially able to hire a private attorney. If you have questions, please contact the San Diego County Public Defender's Office.