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Updated: 5:40 PM Jul 8, 2009
Report: Public Defenders Have Impossible Caseloads
Overwhelming caseloads faced by public defenders in the Las Vegas and Reno areas, Nevada's population centers, result in a lack of "competent and diligent" assistance to indigents charged with crimes, a new report states. Posted: 5:40 PM Jul 8, 2009Reporter: Associated Press Email Address: news@kolotv.com |
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CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) - Overwhelming caseloads faced by public
defenders in the Las Vegas and Reno areas, Nevada's population
centers, result in a lack of "competent and diligent" assistance to indigents charged with crimes, a new report states.
The report from the Spangenberg Group and the Center for Justice, Law and Society at George Mason University adds that big increases in staffing are needed to ensure that Nevada meets a long-standing U.S. Supreme Court requirement for adequate indigent counsel.
The report, released Wednesday, says there are nearly 100 public defenders in Clark County, encompassing Las Vegas, but up to 90 more attorneys are needed to adequately handle the caseload; and in
Washoe County, encompassing Reno, there are nearly 40 public defenders but up to 28 more are needed.
Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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