Why do you have public defenders?

Public defenders are provided to ensure that individuals who cannot afford private legal representation receive fair legal representation in criminal cases. This is essential for upholding the principle of due process and the right to a fair trial, as guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment in the United States. Public defenders help maintain the integrity of the judicial system by ensuring that all defendants, regardless of economic status, have access to competent legal counsel. Their role is crucial in preventing wrongful convictions and protecting individual rights within the legal framework.