U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder today announced two new Justice Department programs aimed at helping to bolster indigent defense services at the state and local levels. Between them, the two programs will make up to $2.4 million in federal funding available to research projects studying the barriers that prevent criminal defendants from receiving effective legal assistance, and to support direct efforts to break down those barriers. "These initiatives represent an unprecedented level of support—from this Justice Department and from the administration as a whole—for reforming America's legal system, and improving its ability to serve those who find quality representation to…
[Read More...]