Michigan Approves Standards For Indigent Defense Lawyers

Michigan’s Supreme Court has approved broad standards for attorneys appointed to represent poor defendants. The standards, proposed by the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission, include requiring that such attorneys have “reasonable knowledge” of Michigan and federal law, certain scientific issues and technology, and that they must complete continuing education. The requirements would also mandate assigning lawyers to clients as quickly as possible, and that they be present at arraignments when bond is set. However, the rules are contingent on the state’s legislature making some changes in law this year.