Criminal Conflicts Panel is a specialized legal program providing indigent defense representation to individuals charged with crimes in Contra Costa County. Operating since 1984 and administered by Independent Counsel Inc., a California nonprofit, the program stands out for its dedicated network of 85 compassionate attorneys who handle approximately 2,000 cases annually, ensuring access to justice for those who cannot afford private counsel.
The program’s a collaborative, team-based approach, offering panel attorneys access to the Attorney Support Division, which includes social workers, research attorneys, paralegals, and mentors. This support is available at any stage of legal proceedings, enabling comprehensive and skilled representation even in the most complex cases. The panel focuses on serving indigent clients across criminal, juvenile, and family-related matters, with a strong emphasis on professional development through ongoing MCLE trainings covering new laws, sentencing, evidence, and trial skills.
Services Offered
- Felony defense
- Misdemeanor defense
- Juvenile delinquency representation
- Conservatorship cases
- Contempt cases
- Guardianship cases
- Witness representation
- Juvenile immigration cases
- Indigent defense representation
- Legal support via social workers, research attorneys, paralegals, and mentors
- MCLE trainings and continuing education
The program serves Contra Costa County exclusively and is appointed by the Contra Costa Public Defender’s Office, the Alternate Defender Office, or directly by the court. With a longstanding commitment since 1984, it emphasizes equal access to legal representation and maintains a certified Multiple Activity MCLE provider status through the California Bar Association.
