The Criminal Defense Training Unit is responsible for the design, development, oversight and delivery of training programs and materials as well as other resources for CPCS Public Defender Division staff and bar advocates who accept appointments through the Private Counsel Division to ensure that the indigent accused receive excellent and constitutionally adequate representation that is client centered and zealous.
Training Unit staff also collaborates with individuals from all divisions of CPCS including CAFL, YAD, Mental Health, the Immigration Impact Unit, Human Resources, Alternative Commitment and Registration Unit and the CPCS Innocence Program to implement state wide criminal defense training programs that promote professional development through continued legal education.
The Unit also provides active assistance to outside organizations in developing curricula that promote and maintain the agency mission of obtaining competent legal services for those who practice indigent defense.