Buffalo County Public Defender

Public Defender Info

Represent all indigent, Defendants charged with felonies and misdemeanors, if penalty for crime carries possible jail time.
Court determines if Defendant can financially hire his own attorney or is indigent. If indigent the Court appoints. The Public Defender's office may not represent as Public Defender prior to Court appointment.
Represent all Persons brought before the Mental Health Board as dangerous to self or others.
Represent Fugitives from Justice and/or Extradition Defendant's if appointed by the Court.

215 West 18th St
Kearney, NE 68845

308.236.1245

308.236.1255

215 West 18th St
Kearney, NE

Elected Position in Buffalo County: 4 year term
Salary: set by Buffalo County Board of Commissioners
Deputies: appointed as needed by elected Public Defender subject to approval of County Board
Full Time Position: determined by statutes in larger counties; by County Board in Buffalo County
Fees: may not accept any compensation for representing Public Defender Clients except for salary plus cost reimbursement from County
Qualifications: must be licensed to practice law in Nebraska
Budget: elected official must submit an annual budget to be approved by the County Board

Buffalo County Public Defender: Jeff Wirth

Buffalo County Public Defender Chief Deputy: Brandon Brinegar

Deputies: