Q: How do I find a Pro Bono Defense Attorney for my daughter in Maryland?
Need someone who is familiar with military court. Although, my daughter is not in the military, she works on the base in the Child Care Center.
A: The Public Defender’s Office provides free representation in criminal cases for defendants who meet the financial requirements. If the case is pending in federal court (United States District Court or before a U.S. Magistrate), then she (not you) needs to apply for representation with the Federal Public Defender’s Office. She should have received paperwork outlining how to apply with their office if she has appeared and been arraigned on the charges or has been served with the charging documents. Otherwise she should look up the specific court online where the case is pending and follow the links to the PD’s website. The Federal Public Defender is separate from the state PD’s office, which only represents defendants in state courts. The main number for the Federal Public Defender’s office in Greenbelt is 301-344-0600. They can direct you to the proper office if different from theirs, and provide information on how to apply. Private defense attorneys usually do not provide pro bono criminal defense services because that is the purpose of the Public Defender. The federal PD’s office has a very good reputation with knowledgeable and dedicated criminal defense attorneys.
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