Short Subjects

Abstract

Who is entitled to a public defender? The United States and Minnesota Constitutions both establish the right to an attorney for anyone facing a charge punishable by “loss of liberty.” Minnesota law entitles anyone who is financially unable to obtain counsel to a public defender if he or she is charged with a felony, gross misdemeanor, or misdemeanor; or is appealing from a conviction of a felony or gross misdemeanor and has not already had a direct appeal of the conviction.