They research applicable law and, with the defendant's consent, may represent them in court. As part of their continuing education, investigators and lawyers regularly attend training programs and the Public Defender conducts training sessions for all employees. Services are not free Public Defenders handles several thousand cases each year at a surprisingly low cost per case. However, the services are not always free. If the defendant is found guilty, the judge may require payment for attorney fees and court costs.
Money collected is placed in the county fine and forfeiture fund.
In juvenile cases, fees and costs may be assessed against the parents of the child.