Office hours: Mon–Fri · 8:00am – 4:30pm · 201 Poplar Ave, Suite 2-01, Memphis

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(901) 222-2800
The law office of the
Shelby County Public Defender
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Adult Division

Full representation for adults charged with misdemeanors and felonies in Shelby County — from first appearance through verdict, at no cost.
Last updated: August 2026

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Contact Adult Division

We’re here Monday – Friday

(901) 222-2800

Monday – Friday · 8:00am – 4:30pm

Main Office
201 Poplar Ave, Suite 2-01
Memphis, TN 38103

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Youth Trial Division
Special Litigation Unit (Mental Health)
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  • Note

If you are in custody in Shelby County, ask a jail staff member to contact our office. We will be in touch as quickly as possible after your arraignment.

The Adult Division is our largest practice group, handling thousands of cases each year across every stage of adult criminal court. We represent clients in General Sessions Court, Criminal Court, and Direct Representation — regardless of the charge and regardless of ability to pay.

What We Do

Our attorneys handle the full spectrum of adult criminal charges in Shelby County — from Class A misdemeanors to the most serious non-capital felonies. Every client, regardless of charge, receives an assigned attorney who is responsible for knowing their case, communicating regularly, and advocating zealously.

General Sessions Court

General Sessions handles misdemeanor cases and preliminary hearings for felony matters. If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor — DUI, simple assault, theft under $1,000, drug possession — your case will likely begin here. Our attorneys appear in General Sessions daily and handle hundreds of these cases every year.

Criminal Court

Felony cases proceed to Criminal Court after a preliminary hearing or grand jury indictment. If you’ve been charged with a felony — assault, robbery, burglary, drug sales, or any other serious offense — your case will be heard in Criminal Court. Our Criminal Court attorneys are experienced trial lawyers who are ready to take a case to a jury if that’s what it takes.

Common Questions

How does assignment work? Can I choose my attorney?

Attorneys are assigned by the court based on your case type and which court it’s in. You cannot choose a specific attorney. If you have a serious concern about your representation, call (901) 222-2800 and ask to speak with a supervisor. 

Contact your attorney immediately. A missed court date can result in a bench warrant for your arrest. The sooner you call, the more options your attorney has. Call (901) 222-2800 if you can’t reach your attorney directly.

No. We are appointed by the court and represent you at no cost. You should never be asked to pay for your SCPD representation.

Find your attorney

Search the directory for direct contact information for every attorney in this division.

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