Public Defenders Discuss Court Caseloads and Resource Needs in Charleston County

During the recent Council Retreat held on July 9, 2025, in Charleston County, significant discussions centered around the challenges facing the public defender's office and the pressing need for judicial resources. Chief Public Defender Scarlett Glaser highlighted the overwhelming number of court cases that have accumulated due to reduced court schedules, emphasizing that even an influx of judges would not alleviate the backlog without adequate resources.

Glaser expressed gratitude for the support from Charleston County, noting that it is the leading county in South Carolina for funding public defense. This financial backing is crucial as the public defender's office serves individuals who cannot afford private representation, providing essential services that extend beyond legal defense, including social services for behavioral health, vocational training, and housing support.

The meeting revealed staggering statistics, with the public defender's office taking on 4,400 new adult cases while only closing 3,700. This imbalance underscores the urgent need for additional court resources and personnel to ensure timely justice and public safety. Glaser's remarks reflect a commitment to improving these numbers, particularly with the anticipated new court facilities.

The discussions at the retreat not only shed light on the operational challenges faced by the public defender's office but also highlighted the broader implications for community safety and well-being. As Charleston County continues to lead in public defense funding, the focus remains on enhancing support systems for those in need, ultimately aiming to create a safer and more equitable community for all residents.