What is a Public Defender?

A Public Defender is a lawyer provided by the Office of the Territorial Public Defender (OTPD) to represent persons charged with criminal offenses who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. Public Defenders are appointed by the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands. The right to a Public Defender is guaranteed by the United States Constitution.  All persons accused of crimes are guaranteed the right to counsel. The Public Defender Offices are manifestations of that right.

Are Public Defenders real lawyers?

Yes. All Public Defenders are licensed attorneys who have completed law school and are sworn members of the Bar in the Virgin Islands or another state on the mainland. Public Defenders are widely recognized as among the best criminal defense attorneys around the country.