Governor Signs Legislation Improving Michigan’s Indigent Criminal Defense System

Governor Rick Snyder signed legislation to ensure the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission meets state constitutional obligations and maintains independence from the judiciary while continuing its work to maintain a fair indigent criminal defense system in Michigan.  Pursuant to a series of amendments to the 2013 enabling legislation, the MIDC is now housed within the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.  Governor Snyder issued a press release after signing the legislation:

“Ensuring that every Michigander has access to affordable and competent legal counsel is critical to our public defense system and our democracy,” Snyder said. “These bills help us continue to make sure those who have been accused of crimes receive the fair and capable legal representation they are guaranteed under the Constitution.”

Read the Governor’s full press release here.

Find information about the legislation on the Michigan Legislature’s website.