There are over one hundred public defenders in the State.  Approximately forty percent are NHACDL members.  If you are one of the others, here is why you should join.

First, we need you.  We need your expertise and your familiarity with the day to day practice and culture in your specific jurisdiction.  We need you to participate in our email discussion group (the listserv) and to help us provide support to the entire criminal defense bar in this state.

Second, you need us.  NHACDL members include some of the most senior and experienced criminal defense lawyers in New Hampshire.  Additionally, many NHACDL members have broader practices.  By joining NHACDL and by participating on the listserv, you can tap into a breadth of experience that you won't find in your own office.  Those of us who are no longer public defenders (and those who have never been), are  familiar with issues facing your clients that do not relate directly to the criminal process, e.g. motor vehicle license issues; immigration issues and procedure; public benefits such as SSI, SSD, TANF, etc.; civil liability and insurance;  potential civil claims; and the rights of prisoners and pretrial detainees.  While you are not generally appointed to deal with these issues, often you need to get some quick answers before you do something that might prejudice your client's rights.  The NHACDL listserv can be an invaluable resource for this.

Additionally, NHACDL speaks up for your clients in the New Hampshire Legislature and the courts.  NHACDL has a legislative committee that attempts to pass legislation each session that is helpful to criminal defendants.  We also fight against laws that strip New Hampshire citizens of their rights and futher shift the power dynamic from the individual to the state. 

Finally, we need each other.  We share the same mission.  We are doing the job that our founding fathers gave us when they wrote the Sixth Amendment.  We are here to ensure fair treatment and fair trials.  We stand with you.  Please stand with us.