Antigua und barbuda
On March 16, 2026, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin announced the government's commitment to establishing a Public Defender's Department by the end of the first quarter of 2026. This initiative aims to ensure that all individuals accused of criminal offenses have access to legal representation, addressing a significant gap in the current justice system.
The existing Legal Aid and Advisory Centre does not handle criminal cases, leaving many defendants without adequate legal support. The new department will provide dedicated public defenders to represent accused persons at all court levels, including magistrate's courts, the high court, and the court of appeal.
In addition to establishing the Public Defender's Department, the government plans to appoint a criminal master for Antigua and Barbuda. This specialized judicial officer will handle procedural matters, applications, and disclosure compliance, aiming to reduce backlogs and improve the efficiency of the criminal justice system.
The Attorney General emphasized the importance of providing proper legal representation to ensure justice for both accused individuals and victims. The establishment of the Public Defender's Department reflects the government's dedication to upholding the rights of all citizens and enhancing the fairness of the legal system.
These developments mark a significant step toward strengthening the legal framework in Antigua and Barbuda, ensuring that justice is accessible and equitable for all.
