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In 1973, the New Mexico Legislature enacted the New Mexico Public Defender Act to meet the State’s constitutional obligations to provide counsel to indigent persons charged with crimes in New Mexico state courts. The Act provided for a Public Defender structure with state appropriated funding and a centralized administration.

The Department’s current operating budget for FY 12 is just under $39 million; Department lawyers handle around 70,000 cases each year. Representation of Department clients includes misdemeanor, juvenile, and felony cases, through appeal and post-conviction proceedings, if necessary. In addition, we have statewide mental health and capital crimes divisions that provide specialized representation.

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News & Events

[04-11-2012] Public Defender announces Requests for Proposals (RFP) for 2012. RFP can be accessed by clicking here.

[12-01-2011] Governor Susana Martinez has appointed Jacqueline Cooper of Cedar Crest to the position of Chief Public Defender for the State of New Mexico.

[12-01-2011] Governor names head of Public Defender Department.