Denver Juveniles Finally Granted Right to Public Defenders in Municipal Court
Kids in Denver facing petty offenses in municipal court used to have two options: Their family could hire a private attorney, or they could represent themselves.
If kids wanted to provide their own defense, they would have to prepare their opening and closing arguments and potentially cross-examine witnesses. Children as young as ten would have the second option if their parents couldn’t afford a private attorney. If not, their next best option may have been to accept a plea deal or a spot in a diversion program.
Hundreds of kids face charges in municipal court for petty offenses like trespassing, alcohol-related offenses and shoplifting. Even some situations like school fights may lead a student to municipal court.
Beginning this month, youth will have more options. On Thursday, the Denver Office of the Municipal Defender will take on its first docket, providing public defenders to clients under 18 years old.
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