Stanislaus County Public Defender

Back to School Health Fair with our friends WM Community Collaborative

What is a plea bargain? A plea bargain is one option that you may have to consider, and it's helpful to understand what that means .

Our role is to help you navigate that process so you can understand your options. We are here to advocate for you and help you make the best decision for your life and your future.

Understanding your constitutional rights is one of the most powerful tools you can have.

At the Stanislaus County Public Defender's Office, we believe a well-informed community is an empowered community. Here are three foundational rights everyone in this country has:

✔️ Law enforcement must have a lawful reason to detain you.
✔️ If an officer asks for your consent to search, you have the right to say no.
✔️ If questioned by law enforcement, you have the right to remain silent and ask for an attorney.

Knowledge is power. We are dedicated to advocating for a fair system and an informed community.

What a way to end the week. ⚖️🎉

Today, two of our Public Defender clients received not guilty verdicts in two separate trials.

Proud of our attorneys and staff for the work they put in every day on behalf of our clients. 💙

Building Skills. Building Stronger Advocates. ⚖️

This week, members of our Public Defender team are joining public defenders from across California at the 2026 Summer Basic Trial Skills Institute.

Through hands-on workshops, small-group practice, and mentorship from experienced defenders, attorneys are strengthening the skills they bring back to the courtroom and to the people we represent every day.

We’re proud of our attorneys for continuing to learn, grow, and sharpen their advocacy.

Thank you to California Public Defenders Association for creating opportunities for defenders across the state to learn from one another.

Legal challenges don’t happen in a vacuum - they affect your peace of mind, your family, and your daily life. Our Client Support Specialists focus on the whole person. We are here to listen, offer guidance, and connect you with local community resources for wellness and stability when you need it most.

Pretrial release means a person is released from custody while awaiting future court dates.

When appropriate, pretrial release can help clients remain connected to their families, jobs, housing, and support systems while their case moves forward. SCPDO attorneys advocate for fair pretrial release options based on each client’s circumstances and the law.

Showing Up for Our Community ♥️

The Hub and the Stanislaus County Public Defender’s Office are proud to be joining Child Support Services today for the Kids Konnect Community Celebration at MJC!

We’re spending the day connecting with families, sharing information about The Hub and Public Defender services, and spending time alongside community partners who are working to support individuals and families throughout our community.

We’re grateful for the invitation and happy to be out connecting with our community today!

If your loved one is stepping into a courtroom, you may be wondering what you can do to help. By attending a hearing and just being there for them, your presence provides immense comfort and peace of mind.

At the SCPDO, we deeply value the role families play in the journey. A calm, encouraging smile outside the courtroom doors helps our clients stay grounded, focused, and hopeful. We are here to guide both you and your loved one every step of the way.