NCJ Number
133667
Date Published
1989
Length
175 pages
Annotation
These standards, promulgated by the National Legal Aid and Defender Association, are intended to improve the quality of representation provided by assigned counsel (private counsel assigned to represent persons who cannot afford to retain counsel).
Abstract
The statement of each standard is followed by a listing of related standards and a commentary that explains the standard's application. Following a statement of the scope of the standards, i.e., their application only to assigned counsel, the standards are presented under the broad categories of policies, structure, and responsibilities. The standards on policies pertain to the provision of quality representation, independence from the judiciary and the funding source, financial eligibility, contribution and recoupment, early representation, the duration and continuity of representation, waiver safeguards, standby counsel, and standards for performance of counsel. Standards for the structure of defense services cover such matters as the establishment of a legal representation plan, the assigned counsel program board, the assigned counsel program administrator, budget and funding, and insurance. Standards pertinent to defense counsel responsibilities address such issues as attorney workloads, attorney qualifications, entry-level training, attorney supervision, disciplinary policies and procedures, payments, and support services.