Bill > LD2059

This bill addresses funding and structural challenges in Maine's public defense system by providing one-time financial support to the Maine Commission on Public Defense Services. Specifically, the bill allocates $13 million in fiscal year 2025-26 and $9 million in fiscal year 2026-27 to address a funding shortfall for compensating assigned counsel (lawyers appointed to represent indigent defendants who cannot afford legal representation). Additionally, the bill establishes a new public defender office in Cumberland County, creating 11 new positions including a District Defender, Assistant District Defenders, Paralegals, a Field Investigator, a Case Manager, and an Office Specialist. The legislation stems from a January 2025 court ruling that found the state was not meeting its constitutional obligation to provide continuous legal representation to criminal defendants. The bill is classified as an emergency measure, meaning it will take effect immediately upon approval, and aims to ensure that individuals facing potential loss of liberty have access to effective legal representation. The new public defender office is designed to serve approximately 30% of criminal defendants in Cumberland County who are entitled to indigent legal services.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=2059&snum=132