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1. Who qualifies for a Public Defender?

1. Under the Indiana Constitution and the US Constitution’s Sixth Amendment, every person has the right to an attorney at no expense to you if you cannot afford one (in certain cases).  Criminal cases, mental health cases, child welfare cases and instance of juvenile court proceedings, and other cases where a possibility of incarceration is involved, are eligible for obtaining a public defender.   This is, by no means, an all inclusive list.
2. In many cases the Judge presiding over your case will determine eligibility for the need of a public defender.   Before deciding whether a public defender can be used in your defense, questions about being able to financially afford a lawyer will be asked.

2. How do I obtain a Public Defender?

1. Your criminal case must be pending in one of the Courts in Hancock County.    
2. You must request a Public Defender:
   1. For Hancock Circuit and Hancock Superior Court #1 you may request a Public Defender at your initial hearing.
   2. For Hancock Superior Court #2 you must file a request directly with the Court, via the Clerk’s Office using your own documentation or by using the documents included HERE.  You must provide a copy of this form to the Hancock County Prosecutor’s Office.
3. Upon Court approval, your case is assigned to our office for representation.

3. How do I find out information on my case?

1. You may access information on your case via Case Search - MyCase (in.gov).