Fontella Baker honored for "outstanding" work.  Click here to view full story.

Reserve woman who shot neighbor in chest claims self-defense, acquitted at trial while represented by St. John the Baptist Public Defender, Michael D. Smith, Jr.  Click here to view full story.

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​​​A former client of St. John the Baptist Public Defender, Lisa Parker, thanks her for going above and beyond when she saved him from an Angola sentence and got him acquitted in 10 minutes. Click on the video below for the full story!

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PUBLIC NOTICE: The Public Defender Office in St. John the Baptist Parish has relocated to 75 Dominican Drive, Suite 202 in Laplace, LA.  This was our location for nearly 20 years before we moved to 425 West Airline Highway in 2018.  The Public Defenders will be at 75 Dominican Drive through the end of 2022, while our office is being renovated after damage caused by Hurricane Ida.  Our phone (985) 651-6677 and fax (985) 651-5800 numbers remain the same. Walk-In applications will be taken on Thursdays.  The $40 application fee is payable by money order.  Visit the website www.stjohnpdo.org to apply and pay online. 

40th JUDICIAL DISTRICT PUBLIC DEFENDER OFFICE

St. John the Baptist Parish

75 Dominican Rd, Suite 202

Laplace, Louisiana  70068-3825

Tel: (985) 651-6677 | Fax: (985) 651-5800


Check us out on Facebook and Instagram: @stjohnpdo

AN APPOINTMENT IS REQUIRED FOR ALL

IN-OFFICE VISITS 

The St. John the Baptist Public Defender Office is a proud partner of Gideon's Promise.

For more information about Gideon's Promise, go to: www.gideonspromise.org​

Public Defender Successful: Attorney Elizabeth Goree actively participated in her first jury trial with mentor experienced Attorney Lisa Parker.  Click here to view full story.

​Public Defender Successful: Attorney Randy Dukes received a unanimous acquittal for Ramos after the second trial.  Click here to view full story.

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ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST  PUBLIC DEFENDER OFFICE 

COURT APPOINTED LAWYERS IN THE 40TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT