Frequently Asked Questions
A client can speak with his/her attorney both prior to and immediately following his/her case being called on the day of court. Please be advised that he/she is not the only client that the Assistant Public Defender ...
Read more: How can I speak with the Assistant Public Defender handling my case?
If a defendant is unable to hire an attorney, he/she may request to be appointed to the Public Defender’s Office. At his/her court date, ask the bailiff for an Affidavit of Assets and Liabilities form. Upon compl...
Read more: How do I get appointed to the Public Defender’s Office?
At this time, the Public Defender’s Office does not handle expungement cases. Please consult the statute on the expungement process, as it varies depending on the type of offense. Forms pertaining to the expung...
Nothing, other than a private attorney is hired by the Defendant or his family members whereas the Office of the Public Defender is appointed by the Court to represent individuals accused of crimes that are deemed indi...
Read more: What is the difference between a private attorney and an Assistant Public Defender?
The Public Defender’s Office adheres to strict confidentiality concerning our clients and their cases. No sensitive case information will be released to the public, including family member...
Read more: To whom and what case information can the Public Defender’s Office release?
Assistant Public Defenders work on juvenile and adult criminal cases carrying a jail eligible sentence. These cases can range from traffic offenses to serious felonies. In addition, the Juvenile Division of the Pub...
Read more: What kind of cases do Assistant Public Defender’s defend?
A client cannot choose who is assigned as his/her Assistant Public Defender. Assignments are based upon the courtroom in which the case will be heard. Clients may not request a change of attorney if he/she is unsat...
Read more: Can I choose which Assistant Public Defender I want to represent me?
All Assistant Public Defenders have graduated from law school and passed the Illinois State Bar Exam. They have an understanding of the fundamental principles of the law and appropriate defenses. Our attorneys are ...
The Will County Public Defender's Office does not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability in its services, programs, or activities. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid...