The Harris County Public Defender is a department created by Commissioners Court for the purpose of representing indigent persons charged in the misdemeanor, felony, and juvenile courts. The office receives its cases by appointments from judges and is not allowed to choose its clients. Persons represented by this office can expect zealous representation from the combined experience of lawyers, investigators, social workers, and other administrative staff.   Judges also may assign private attorneys to represent indigent defendants and juveniles. Those lawyers are not associated with this office, but must meet minimum qualifications in order to receive appointments.   For more information about the Harris County Public Defender's Office, please visit our full website.