On Feb. 27, five chief public defenders in Louisiana learned their contracts would end after July. These attorneys manage local public defender offices and play key roles in the state’s legal system. Another 32 public defenders remain under review for potential changes.
The layoffs follow a years-long conflict between State Public Defender Remy Starns and the chief public defenders. As the state public defender, Starns manages the budget, resources and offices across Louisiana. According to the Louisiana Illuminator, Starns has attempted to reduce the pay of chief public defenders.
“The lawyers who are losing their jobs have been the most outspoken about Starns’ efforts to cut their own pay and exert more influence over the public defender system,” the Illuminator reported.
Among the five attorneys, Deirdre Fuller and Michelle AndrePont serve as president and secretary of the Public Defender Association of Louisiana, an organization supporting state public defenders. Both have testified multiple times before the state public defender board, raising concerns about Starns’ proposals.
Public defender John Hogue told KNOE that removing him from his position could create problems for his district.
“I think ultimately the state needs to come up with the funding to adequately fund public defense,” Hogue said. “You can’t try to put the burden on the local districts.” Hogue said he does not have a clear answer on why he and his colleagues’ contracts will not be renewed.
Public defenders represent individuals who cannot afford private legal counsel, ensuring that all defendants receive legal representation as required by the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. In 2022-23, 88% of people charged with crimes in Louisiana relied on public defenders, according to a financial report. Collectively, they represented about 142,000 clients.
Chief public defenders and those under review manage local operations and often handle criminal trials. Their removal could severely impact Louisiana’s public defense system. Disruptions in legal representation may overwhelm remaining attorneys, delay court proceedings and increase pressure on defendants to accept plea deals.
Public defenders in Louisiana already face heavy caseloads. The removal of key leaders and attorneys could worsen delays, strain the judicial system and increase the risk of unjust outcomes for defendants.
The potential consequences of these layoffs raise concerns about access to justice and the long-term sustainability of the public defender system in Louisiana.
