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Improving Access to Legal Defense and Support for Public Defenders

This act aims to strengthen the right to legal defense in criminal cases by ensuring better access to public defenders. It introduces grant programs for states and localities to improve the quality of public defense services, collect data on defender workloads, and ensure fair compensation. Additionally, it increases financial support for public defenders for student loan repayment.
Key points
Increased Funding for Public Defense: States and local governments can receive grants to improve the quality of public defender services, meaning better legal assistance for those who cannot afford a private attorney.
Fair Compensation: The act seeks to make public defenders' salaries comparable to prosecutors', encouraging more lawyers to pursue careers in public defense.
Improved Working Conditions: Workload limits will be established for public defenders, ensuring they have enough time to effectively represent their clients.
Student Loan Repayment Support: The limits on student loan repayment amounts for public defenders have been increased, making it easier for them to pursue public service careers.
Greater Transparency: States will be required to collect and submit data on criminal cases and legal representation, allowing for a better assessment of justice system needs.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_3758
Sponsor: Rep. Bonamici, Suzanne [D-OR-1]
Process start date: 2023-05-31
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

EQUAL Defense Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_3758.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-05-31.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Increased Funding for Public Defense: States and local governments can receive grants to improve the quality of public defender services, meaning better legal assistance for those who cannot afford a private attorney.
  • Fair Compensation: The act seeks to make public defenders' salaries comparable to prosecutors', encouraging more lawyers to pursue careers in public defense.
  • Improved Working Conditions: Workload limits will be established for public defenders, ensuring they have enough time to effectively represent their clients.
  • Student Loan Repayment Support: The limits on student loan repayment amounts for public defenders have been increased, making it easier for them to pursue public service careers.
  • Greater Transparency: States will be required to collect and submit data on criminal cases and legal representation, allowing for a better assessment of justice system needs.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Bonamici, Suzanne [D-OR-1].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

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