Apply Today to Become a VISTA Member

MSPD has just launched the Intake Improvement Project and currently has two vacant year-long Americorps VISTA positions. For more information on the project, the available positions and what Americorps service entails, visit the project page here

MSPD OFFICES BEGINNING A PHASED REOPENING TO THE PUBLIC

Public Defender Offices are beginning a limited reopening to the public effective June 22, 2020. Public Defender staff will be available for scheduled in-office appointments with clients for case related essential activities. Local offices may have reduced public hours during which visitors are allowed in the offices. Public office hours vary by location. Please call or email your local office if you need assistance prior to going to the office to determine the manner in which the office is open to the public. Leave your name and a phone number if no one is available and your phone call or e-mail will be returned.

If you need to apply for services, you can now do so through our new online application. If you would like a paper application, you can leave a message by phone or e-mail providing your full name, address and case number if known. You may also download an application from the How to Apply for Services page and send that application to your local office

Check Case.Net at http://www.courts.mo.gov/to find your next court date. Please check case.net on a weekly basis to obtain your next court date as court dates may be changing as a result of Covid-19.

Recent News Articles

- St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Matthew Mahaffey: Time is now to speak up, reach out and be better (June 3, 2020)
- Columbia Missourian: Continued rise in felony caseload cripples Missouri public defender system (May 29, 2020)
- Kansas City Star: Missouri lawmakers: public defender system failing, but search for funds a challenge (November 25, 2019)

MSPD’s goal is to provide every client with zealous advocacy

The Missouri State Public Defender System (MSPD) provides legal representation to all indigent citizens accused of or convicted of crimes in Missouri at the levels of the State Trial Court, Appellate Court, Missouri Supreme Court, and United States Supreme Court.

MSPD attempts to provide every client with a high-quality, competent, ardent defense team at every stage of the process in which public defenders are necessary. The team is led by a licensed Missouri attorney devoted full-time to the practice of criminal law.

Employment Opportunities

MSPD has more than 615 employees statewide to ensure zealous advocacy for all clients. See our current vacancies if you are seeking litigation experience and cutting-edge training opportunities.