Fresno County Public Defender's Office

02/13/2026

Congratulations to Laura Higareda-Chapa!

The Fresno County Public Defender’s Office proudly congratulates Juvenile Attorney Laura Higareda-Chapa on being selected as a recipient of the American Red Cross Central Valley Education Award.

As the first education attorney in the Juvenile Unit, Laura provides vital advocacy for youth involved in the juvenile justice system—many of whom face significant barriers to educational stability. Her work helps prevent unnecessary school discipline, expands access to educational supports, and drives meaningful systemic change through collaboration with school districts and community partners.

Laura’s commitment to educational equity and youth advocacy exemplifies the highest standard of public service. We are honored to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and the lasting impact she continues to make throughout Fresno County. Fresno County Public Defender's Office

05/28/2025

Last week, our esteemed immigration unit was honored as part of a statewide Padilla group recognized by the ILRC for its work with non-citizen defendants.

Here’s a photo of our immigration team at the ceremony.

We are proud to help all people in Fresno County.

05/12/2025

This Saturday, members of our office joined the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Walk to raise awareness and support for mental health. Dressed in green and walking side by side, they honored the individuals they serve and advocated for a system that recognizes the importance of mental well-being.

The event was a powerful reminder that mental health is a community issue, and every step taken brings us closer to a more inclusive and understanding society. Thank you to all who participated and continue to support mental health awareness. 💚

05/05/2025

Good luck to those awaiting results for the California Bar exam!

You worked hard and have endured adversity this testing season. We are sending you the best of luck!

04/21/2025

We had a great time meeting students at Fresno State today!

We are actively recruiting for Fall interns and lawyers!

04/02/2025

We respect all justice warriors who fight for justice and on behalf of the accused.

Public Defenders provide an essential service in the justice system. They are provided by the Constitution and are here to safeguard the rights of the indigent. We help everyone regardless of income and ability to pay.

Defense attorneys are warriors in and out of the courtroom. They fight for those who no one else will fight for. We will continue to fight alongside other members of the defense bar towards the common goal of fighting against inequality.

03/31/2025

Happy Cesar Chavez Day.
Our office will be closed today in observance of Cesar Chavez Day.

03/18/2025

Happy National Public Defender Day.
To all public defenders near and far, this work is never easy and never done. We continue to fight because we need to.

Thank you to the fighters of the Fresno County Public Defender.

https://www.fresnocountyca.gov/Departments/Public-Defender/Employment-Opportunities

12/06/2024

11/08/2024

We wish all bar takers the best of luck today.

Today we give a special shout out to our 10 post bar clerks. Brittany, Marina, Jacquelyn, Joe, Alice, Jacqueline, Gloria, Alden, Lisa and Jose.

Our post bars spent the past 3 months preparing for their legal career in the court room.

Good luck to all of you, and thank you for all your hard work this summer!