Public Defender

Public Defenders are not appointed for all cases. The Cuyahoga County Public Defender provides legal representation only in contempt and paternity proceedings for parties who are indigent.

A party must request the assistance of a public defender by filing a written motion or verbal motion at the first hearing scheduled on the case. A party also needs to complete a Public Defender Financial Disclosure Form to determine if the party qualifies for a public defender to be appointed.