The Dawes County, Public Defender's Office, located in Chadron, Nebraska, represents clients facing criminal charges who do not have the means to represent themselves. With one Public Defender and various other supporting staff, the Office serves all indigent felony defendants, all indigent persons against whom a petition has been filed with a mental health board. As provided in sections 71-945 to 71-947, all indigent persons charged with misdemeanor offenses are punishable by imprisonment when appointed by the court. Therefore, a public defender shall not represent an indigent person before appointment by the court, except that a public defender may represent a person under arrest for investigation or on suspicion. The Public Defender ensures that every accused citizen, regardless of financial resources, receives zealous and effective representation as mandated by the United States and Nebraska Constitutions. The Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the rights of criminal defendants, including the right to a public trial without unnecessary delay and the right to a lawyer. You should contact the Dawes County Public Defender's Office for further assistance.