This report defines the different types of juvenile defense systems at play across the U.S., discusses key difference between public defender systems and other systems – including funding and other supports – that may affect how juvenile defense attorneys perform, and identifies key components of creating effective appointed counsel and contract systems. Some of the keys to a successful contract defender system include independence of defender appointments, a system that incorporates oversight and accountability of defense counsel; the standardization of professional obligations; setting and maintaining qualifications for counsel to engage in this specialized area of the law; just compensation and funding; and thoughtful data collection and analysis.
