Contact Information:

707 E. Etna Road
Ottawa, IL  61350 Phone:
(815) 434-8267

The LaSalle County Public Defender's Office represents indigent individuals charged with a criminal offense in LaSalle County.  The representation begins only after the accused person requests the appointment of counsel by the Court, is shown to be indigent by filing an affidavit of assets and liabilities, and the Court in a written order directs that person is to be represented by the Public Defender's Office.

Clients on bond are generally interviewed by investigators employed by the Public Defender's Office. It is the client's responsibility to contact the office.  Clients in custody are interviewed by the Public Defender investigator.

An attorney from our office may also be appointed for those persons named as a party in juvenile delinquency or neglect actions in juvenile court, and persons subject to mental health commitment actions. Public Defender representation is not available for those facing non-jailable village ordinances or petty traffic offenses.