“You have the right
to an attorney, and if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for
you.” We’re all familiar with those words from countless police dramas
(hopefully not as much from personal experience). The right to an attorney in
criminal matters is guaranteed by the Sixth
Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Unfortunately, there has been a growing
gap in this country between the promise of the right to counsel and the
reality. This year, with the passage of LD 1132,
An Act to Establish the Maine Commission On Indigent Legal Services,
Maine takes an important step towards ensuring that the quality of justice a
person receives is not dependent on wealth. It is only a first step, and we
will all need to do our best to ensure that this new
commission is a success and that legal services
are fully funded. But, we should all be proud of the State of Maine for
recognizing the importance of the fundamental right to
counsel.
I'm going to Augusta this afternoon for a signing ceremony at the Governor's office, which will bring together all of the judges, legislators, attorneys, and advocates who helped make this law possible. It is an occassion for celebration but also for renewing our committment to justice.