A Different Convergence this Gideon Day

A year ago, supporters of the Campaign for an Independent Public Defense Commission from around the state came to Albany on the anniversary of Gideon v Wainwright calling for “JUSTICE NOW.” This year’s Gideon Anniversary brings a new statewide convergence, not of individual people but of legal and political actions. The NYCLU lawsuit will be argued in Albany just days after the actual Gideon anniversary date of March 18. The Executive budget now under discussion in the Legislature includes a proposal for an important, if modest, step toward public defense reform [see Part E]. The Chief Administrator of the Courts just issued, pursuant to a bill in last year’s budget, a rule [subscription to NY Law Journal required for link] to begin implementation of compliance with caseload standards in New York City. (The rest of the state remains without caseload caps.) Proposed changes to the way New York City provides public defense services have led to conflict and, consequently, to news stories in legal circles [subscription to NY Law Journal required for link] and beyond about this too-often-ignored, vital government function.

Gideon Day offers a great opportunity for Campaign supporters to write to their local newspaper, speak on their local radio station, or visit a public official about the burning need for immediate public defense reform. Success stories can be sent to the Campaign via the Campaign’s website or, in the case of published letters or articles, posted here!