Marshall County has approved on first reading an ordinance to establish a dedicated Public Defenders department.
The transition will include cooperation with the Fulton County Public Defender program.
Commissioners say the move is expected to streamline operations, improve public defender services, and provide substantial financial benefits to the county through state reimbursement in Marshall County. The new structure will bring changes to how public defenders are assigned and compensated, aiming for greater efficiency and accountability.
A key benefit of the new department is the ability to seek reimbursement from the state. It's estimated that approximately 40% of the county’s annual public defender costs, roughly $50,000, could be recouped, clarifying expenses for budgetary purposes. While the program is slated to begin in January, additional appropriations will be required to fund its initial setup, as the budget has already been approved.
To ensure a smooth transition, Marshall County will not hire a full-time department head immediately. Instead, the county plans to contract with the attorney from Rochester who currently manages Fulton County’s Public Defender program. This part-time individual will be responsible for scheduling public defenders and ensuring proper legal coverage across all county courts.
Marshall County Commissioners will consider the ordinance on second and third hearings at an upcoming meeting.
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