Law Office of the Public Defender, Tenth Judicial Circuit

The Law Office of the Public Defender, Blair Allen, for the Tenth Judicial Circuit of Florida serves Polk, Highlands, and Hardee Counties. Our office is comprised of over 100 dedicated professionals to serve you, including trial and appellate attorneys, criminal defense investigators, mitigation specialists, and administrative support staff. In 1963, the United States Supreme Court’s ruling in the case of Gideon v. Wainwright led to the establishment of the Florida Public Defender System. Prior to 1963, there was no recognized constitutional right to an attorney for those who could not afford one. The Law Office of the Public Defender exists to guarantee that the poor, or indigent, have the right to a fair trial, which protects us all. The lawyers and staff of the Office of the Public Defender for the Tenth Judicial Circuit represent indigent people in criminal cases, involuntary mental health, and juvenile delinquency cases in our community. Our office committed to efficient legal representation, effective attorney-client communication, and emphasize a culture of dignity and respect for our clients, as well as our employees and the community.