#PublicDefenders are chronically overworked in the US, as the government has never adequately funded them as required by law. On #ThisDayInHistory in 1963 the #SCOTUS ruled that states have a constitutional obligation to provide counsel to those who cannot afford hiring a lawyer.
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This is especially timely as Republican-aligned figures join in the debate over #ICE and DHS funding by explicitly rejecting due process for those accused of being illegal immigrants.
I cringe every time I hear them assert that, and it seems to be a major stickingpoint in Congress at the moment.
