Public Defender Information

When a person is charged with a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony with a possibility of jail time, the court may appoint an attorney if you cannot afford one. 

You can ask for a Public Defender (PD) at any time, but it is best to ask when you first appear in court, if not before. You can ask the court to appoint a Public Defender by completing a Public Defender application in one of the following ways:

• Using the Online PD Application. This allows you to type in your answers and submit your application directly to the court for review. Read the Quick Reference Guide (QRG) for Completing the Public Defender Application for more information. 
• Using the PD Application Form on the Minnesota Judicial Branch Website. Note: Fillable Smart Forms cannot be used on mobile devices.
• Using the MN Board of Public Defender’s form and filing with the court.

An application for public defender must be truthfully completed. The court reviews the Public Defender Application and decides if you are financially eligible. If so, the court appoints the Public Defender to represent you and the local Chief Public Defender decides which Assistant Public Defender will handle your case. You are unable to choose which Assistant Public Defender handles your case. In some locations, there is a financial inquiry that occurs before the first court hearing. In other locations, the inquiry occurs in court. Minnesota law sets out the types of court hearings in which a person has a right to appointment of a public defender in court.

The State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense is independent of the Minnesota Judicial Branch. For more information about the Public Defender's Office, visit the State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense website.