Resources
Tools, guides, and research to support public defense
Resource Library
Our resource library includes a variety of materials to support public defenders, researchers, policymakers, and community advocates. These resources are designed to help you understand and address the challenges facing the public defense system in Texas.
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Caseload Standards Guide
A comprehensive guide to understanding and implementing caseload standards for public defenders, including best practices and case studies.
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Data Analysis Toolkit
Tools and templates for analyzing public defense data, including spreadsheets, visualization tools, and statistical analysis guides.
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Policy Brief: Funding Reform
A policy brief outlining recommendations for reforming public defense funding in Texas, based on our data analysis and research.
Research Reports
Our research reports provide in-depth analysis of various aspects of the public defense system in Texas. These reports are based on our data collection and analysis, as well as interviews with stakeholders and literature reviews.
The State of Public Defense in Texas: 2023 Report
A comprehensive overview of the public defense system in Texas, including caseloads, outcomes, funding, and recommendations for improvement.
Disparities in Public Defense: A Data-Driven Analysis
An analysis of disparities in public defense representation and outcomes based on race, ethnicity, income, and geography.
Training Materials
We offer a variety of training materials for public defenders, researchers, policymakers, and advocates. These materials are designed to help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to effectively use data to improve the public defense system.
Data Literacy Workshop
A workshop designed to help public defenders and advocates develop the skills needed to understand and use data effectively.
Advocacy Training
Training materials for advocates working to improve the public defense system, including messaging guides, coalition-building strategies, and more.
Policy Development Workshop
A workshop for policymakers and advocates focused on developing evidence-based policies to improve the public defense system.
External Resources
We've compiled a list of external resources that may be helpful for those interested in public defense data and reform. These resources include organizations, publications, and tools that complement our work.
Organizations
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers - Advocacy organization dedicated to ensuring justice and due process for persons accused of crime.
National Legal Aid & Defender Association - America's oldest and largest nonprofit association devoted to excellence in the delivery of legal services to those who cannot afford counsel.
Vera Institute of Justice - Research and policy organization working to build and improve justice systems that ensure fairness, promote safety, and strengthen communities.
Publications
Gideon at 60: The Right to Counsel in the 21st Century - A report examining the state of public defense 60 years after the landmark Gideon v. Wainwright decision.
The State of Indigent Defense in the United States - A comprehensive report on the state of public defense across the United States.
Data-Driven Criminal Justice Reform - A guide to using data to drive criminal justice reform efforts.