Item:
Title
Public Defender Office Organization Update (45 Minutes)
Body
Date of BOCC Meeting: October 6, 2025
Request for Board Action:
Agenda Text
The Board will receive an operational update from the Durham County Public Defender's Office, which serves as the primary legal advocate for individuals who cannot afford private legal representation when facing criminal charges. The office's core mission centers on representing financially qualifying indigent defendants across the full spectrum of criminal cases, from minor misdemeanor offenses to the most serious felony charges. This comprehensive legal service encompasses a diverse caseload that includes driving while impaired cases, drug-related offenses, assault and domestic violence matters, property crimes and theft charges, traffic violations carrying potential incarceration, and major felony prosecutions, including violent criminal cases.
Public Defender Baxton will present an operational overview that highlights the department's current caseload distribution and workload management strategies. The presentation will address both the opportunities available to enhance legal services and the significant challenges confronting the office, particularly focusing on how increasing caseloads are straining departmental resources while state funding remains relatively stagnant.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Strategic Plan Goal - Safe and Resilient Community.
Resource Persons: Donna Baxton, Public Defender
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the Board receives the update on the revaluation process.
Signature
County Manager: ____________________________