SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — A bill helping the state’s public defenders with a new office in the Judicial Branch is headed to the governor’s desk.

Public defenders are government appointed lawyers for people accused of criminal charges who cannot afford legal representation.

An independent office would be established to set guidelines for the appointment, responsibilities, and salaries of public defenders. Additionally, a commission would be formed to assist with operational expenses and financial support.

County offices would also mimic those new roles.

Supporters of the bill said that would be among the most substantial reforms to the state’s public defender system since 1949.

“Every resident of Illinois deserves a robust defense, regardless of their financial situation,” stated State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago). “Introducing this new system would ensure that meaningful support reaches individuals who have been overlooked in discussions about criminal justice reform for far too long.”

Currently, judges hold the authority to appoint and remove chief public defenders. However, the American Bar Association advises against this arrangement, advocating for the independence of public defenders.

“For years, our local public defenders have been doing more with less – handling impossible caseloads and fighting uphill battles,” Peters said. “This bill gives public defenders the tools to do the job right and truly stand up for their client.”

The bill passed the Senate Saturday and now heads to Pritzker’s desk. The full text of the bill can be found here.