DE SB28

Creates the Office of Defense Services with three branches—Central Administration, Public Defender's Office, and Office of Conflicts Counsel—consolidating administrative functions while maintaining separate case representation.

Replaces the Public Defender position with a Chief Defender role, extending the term from 6 years to 12 years for appointments made after July 1, 2015, with salary set annually in the Budget Bill.

Prohibits salaried attorneys employed by the Office of Defense Services from engaging in private law practice, except for those who established practices before January 1, 2015 (10-year exemption period).

Modifies compensation procedures so attorneys contracting with the Office of Conflicts Counsel receive reasonable compensation fixed by the Chief Defender and paid through that office, rather than by individual courts.

Maintains the $100 administrative fee assessment against defendants represented by the Office of Defense Services, with revenue directed to the General Fund and unpaid fees subject to work-release or sentencing conditions.