BATAVIA - Recent renovations to the Clermont County Public Defender’s Office concluded this month, nearly doubling its available workspace for employees. Planned and constructed by SMR Design and Kramer & Feldman Inc., the new office strengthens the county’s commitment to accessible legal representation for residents who cannot afford an attorney.
The construction project added 1,200 square feet to the existing facility at 302 E Main St. The County secured over 90% of its funding through a partnership with the State of Ohio. Clermont County valued the design bid at around $346,500.
In a Facebook post by the Clermont County, Ohio government, Public Defender Stephan Haynes notes:
“The renovation and addition improve the appearance and usefulness of our main office. We now have room for our appellate attorney, investigator, and social work department. None of them previously had offices in our building.”
An afternoon ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the completion of the project. The government has since released several photos of the upgraded interior.
The Ohio Bar Association states that there are not enough lawyers in 82 Ohio counties to adaquately serve some local communities. Ideally, one attorney should be available for every 700 residents.
In criminal law, recent studies indicate that upwards of 80% of defendants in America rely on public defender services.
The Clermont County Public Defender’s Office represents individuals who cannot afford a lawyer and who face charges that could result in jail time. To qualify for representation, individuals must meet indigency guidelines and complete a Financial Disclosure Form.
The office does not handle civil matters such as divorces, custody cases, lawsuits, employment disputes, probate issues, or other instances in which incarceration is not a possible outcome.
The recent addition to the Public Defender’s Office highlights the county’s dedication to expanding staff and available resources for the community.
Clermont County has a population of around 212,000 residents and workers. The expansion of the Public Defender’s Office widens the margin of criminal defense opportunities for residents of all socio-economic backgrounds.
While the county enjoys a low crime rate per capita compared to some neighboring counties, Clermont residents can rest easy knowing that the renovation of the Public Defender’s Office increases the government’s capacity to administer justice.
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