The Washington County Public Defender's Office is located in Nashville, Illinois. The Office of Washington County Public Defenders provides legal representation in criminal matters for those individuals who have criminal charges in Washington County and qualify for their services. With one Chief Public Defender, attorneys and staff, the office ensures that every accused citizen, regardless of financial resources, receives zealous and effective representation as mandated by the United States and Illinois Constitutions. Additionally, the Public Defender's Office provides legal representation to indigent defendants in Washington County who cannot pay for private counsel and risk losing their liberty if convicted. 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. The privilege of offering representation to those in need is why the law has offered public defense services. Please visit their website for who qualifies for representation by the Public Defender's Office and how and when you can apply.