Mercer County Public Defender Tom Lucente joined Spectrum on Monday on WCSM to explain the role of the Public Defender’s Office, clear up common misconceptions, and discuss the growing demands of providing legal representation in Mercer County.

Lucente said the Public Defender’s Office represents indigent clients in cases where jail or prison time is a possible outcome. That includes criminal cases at the misdemeanor and felony level, child support contempt cases, and certain domestic relations matters where incarceration is possible. He emphasized that public defenders are not involved in minor infractions such as speeding tickets.

A key part of the discussion focused on who qualifies for a public defender. While income guidelines exist and are set at roughly 185 percent of the federal poverty line, Lucente explained that income alone does not determine eligibility. Individuals who earn above that threshold may still qualify if they are unable to hire private legal counsel due to high costs, significant debt, or difficulty finding an attorney willing to take their case.

Lucente also described what the public does not often see behind the scenes. In addition to daily court appearances, he said much of the work involves extensive legal research, writing, and reviewing large volumes of discovery materials, including police reports, body camera footage, surveillance video, phone records, and other digital evidence. He noted that advances in technology have significantly increased the amount of time required to properly prepare a case.

He outlined the strain placed on the office by current caseloads, explaining that he and one associate handle municipal court, common pleas court, juvenile court, child support, and domestic relations matters. Lucente said the office is seeking approval for a third attorney to help manage the workload and ensure each case receives the attention it deserves.

Lucente addressed misconceptions about public defenders, saying clients in Mercer County receive experienced and competent representation. He stressed that public defenders are not tasked with “getting guilty people off,” but rather ensuring individuals are treated fairly and that their constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process.

The conversation also included advice for individuals facing charges. Lucente encouraged anyone appearing in court to request an attorney and not attempt to navigate the legal system alone, noting that the right to legal representation is fundamental to ensuring just outcomes.

The full discussion aired on Spectrum, WCSM’s public affairs program serving Mercer and Auglaize counties.