Dutchess County Public Defender

They don't work for you! They don't keep you in the loop, they don't meet with you to discuss your case, they don't inform you when offer/plead deal as changed or work with you in your defense. I worked all my life and recently unemployed...wonderful to see where our tax dollars goes. Such a disappointment in the judicial system. Low income USA citizens has no rights or seems to not deserve proper legal representation. If get in trouble , dont call them, gather funds and hire a lawyer who'll fight for you.

Horrible. Attorney is refusing to file a motion that the judge has no jurisdiction and for frivolous complaint even though he knows he is right, in a family court matter and is conspiring with the judge. He already has done paperwork for the motion but refuses to file the complaint. Tried calling his supervisor but he won't call back. My lawyer knew that the complaint was dropped and did not tell me for a month to keep me as a client. He only told me because I setup an apointment with his supervisor.

First: forget about getting these clowns on the phone. They have an eternal loop that sends you back to "press 1 for the operator." So drag your body into Poughkeepsie to make an appointment, and bring all the necessary papers. I was okayed for representation, since I owe more money than I have. Then a "Mr. McHale" called to say I had too much money, and I was being turned down after being okayed. A mixed blessing, because these advocates are about as avid as a dental patient. I am sure there are probably good PDs. Somewhere. McHale's message said "call 486-2800 if you have questions." Which of course led to "press 1 for an operator. Press 1 for an operator." If you guys don't want to be public advocates, why not get a job delivering cable TV. At least those guys provide a service. Press

Mostly the lawyers there are moderate at best. The two lawyers i have are the best. But other than that the answering service isnt that great, and whenever you call the main number 8 out of 10 times the person is discourteous.

Jason was very helpful and easy to talk to. He was friendly and I could tell he had my best interests in mind.