Michigan State Appellate Defender Office and Criminal Defense Resource Center

Top Stories

We are Hiring an Information Technology Technician

Apply by June 28, 2021

At SADO, we value innovation and rely heavily on technology solutions to aid in the delivery of high-quality public defense services. In doing so, we use technology to automate processes and increase productivity, manage electronic records, facilitate virtual hearings and client visits, capture criminal legal system data, support remote workers, and provide access to resources and tools for the courts, criminal defense attorneys, and the public. We are looking for an Information Technology Technician to join our team.  Read More

Join the MAACS Roster!

Applications accepted through September 3, 2021

The Michigan Appellate Assigned Counsel System (MAACS) is accepting applications from conscientious criminal defense attorneys with all levels of criminal appellate experience. MAACS roster attorneys receive reasonable and reliable attorney fees, investigation and litigation support services, legal research assistance, and expanded resources and training. Read More

June 16, 2021 Appellate Defender Commission Meeting at Noon via Zoom

This meeting will be conducted remotely and consistent with City of Lansing Resolution #2021-081 and the Wayne County Local Public Health Department Emergency Epidemic Order of May 18, 2021. In response to the ongoing risk posed by COVID-19, and in an effort to reduce transmission of COVID-19 and protect the health of Commissioners, SADO staff and members of the public interested in attending the meeting, the Commission will be meeting remotely. If you have questions about how to join this meeting please contact MariaRosa Palmer at (517) 334-1203. Read More

Jones v Mississippi

Life without parole is only permissible for the permanently incorrigible youth, but a finding of permanent incorrigibility is not required before imposing a life-without-parole sentence on a defendant-youth.  Read more

Seeking Mitigation Interns for Fall and Spring 2021-2022

Applications accepted on a rolling basis. Apply before July 26.

SADO is an appellate public defender office working statewide to address injustices and disparities in the criminal legal system based on race, class, ability, and other characteristics. SADO’s Juvenile Lifer Unit (JLU) is accepting applications for Mitigation Interns for the 2021-2022 fall and spring semesters. Read More

COVID-19 Pleadings and Resources for Attorneys and Advocates

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important for the defender community to advocate for the release of incarcerated individuals. Keeping people unnecessarily incarcerated dangers public health and safety. SADO has created and gathered sample pleadings, information, and resources here. This page will be continually updated. Read More

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Media Releases

This project was funded by the Byrne JAG grant #2010-DJ-BX-0003, awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), and administered by the Michigan state Police (MSP). Points of view or opinions contained within this document do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the MSP or DOJ.