NAPD Public Resource Library

The NAPD statement, approved on March 19, 2015, addresses the ethical implications of excessive workloads in public defense systems. It highlights the historical challenges faced by public defense providers in defining and demonstrating what constitutes an excessive workload, which has hindered their ability to secure necessary resources and advocate for reduced caseloads. The statement calls for the development and institutionalization of meaningful workload standards, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the complexities of modern criminal defense practices since the National Advisory Commission's standards were established in 1973. Furthermore, the NAPD advocates for evidence-based methods, particularly ongoing timekeeping, to assess and establish reasonable workload standards. This approach not only provides transparency and accountability but also enables public defense providers to demonstrate their workload challenges effectively. By implementing these standards, the NAPD aims to ensure that public defense providers can fulfill their ethical obligations and provide competent representation, ultimately safeguarding clients' constitutional rights and improving the overall quality of public defense services.