Can the Public Defender Represent Me?
Qualification and appointment process for a Public Defender
In all cases, the law requires defendants who wish to be represented by the
Public Defender to fill out the Affidavit of Indigent Status. A $50 application
fee will be imposed. Florida law authorizes the Public Defender to represent all
clients regardless of their ability to pay the $50 application fee. In juvenile
court, if the child, parent or legal guardian of the child wishes the child to be
represented by an attorney, but does not have the funds to hire a private
attorney, the child, parent, or guardian fills out the application for the
services of the Public Defender. To download the Affidavit of Indigent Status,
click here.
As defined in Florida law, a judge can appoint the Public Defender to represent
a person who has income that is equal to or less than 200% of the current
federal poverty guidelines, or who is unable to pay for the services of a
private attorney without substantial hardship to his family, is indigent and
qualifies for the services of the Public Defender. To review Florida's income
eligibility guidelines for Public Defender services,
click here.
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