Private Panel Opportunities
Become a Private Panel Attorney
CPCS contracts with private attorneys in Massachusetts in cases where the law requires the appointment of counsel. Attorneys provide representation in criminal, delinquency, youthful offender, child welfare, mental health, sexually dangerous person and sex offender registry cases, as well as related appeals and post-conviction matters.
If you’re interested in applying, follow these steps.
Note: many panels have limited application periods and may not review applications on a rolling basis. Candidates are advised to review panel-specific application windows, admission information, and training schedule here.
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Read the certification requirements outlined in the Assigned Counsel Manual.
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If selected, attend certification trainings.
Getting Started
Applicants should not begin the attorney vendor application process until they have been accepted into a certification training program. Once accepted, applicants should email vendorinfo@publiccounsel.net to receive the required paperwork and submission instructions.
After submitting your application materials, please allow up to two weeks before following up on your application status.
Other Helpful Resources
Contact the Outreach Team
View ongoing continuing education and career development opportunities.
Voices of Justice
Discover the powerful stories behind the fight for justice.
Defending the West: The Fight for Justice
Across the western Massachusetts, public defenders stand on the frontlines of the legal system, yet unwavering in their commitment to fairness and human dignity.
This powerful interview series begins with a montage of CPCS private panel attorneys across all practice areas. Attorneys reflect on the triumphs and challenges public defenders face, the supportive community of lawyers who inspire and motivate one another while working for systemic change, the myriad benefits of panel membership, and their dedication to making sure clients are treated with respect and dignity during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
Forensic and Expert Resources
We maintain information on experts already approved as CPCS vendors, new experts who have not yet worked on a CPCS case, and can help you find an expert that meets the forensic litigation needs of your client’s case.
Social Work and Social Services Vendors
We provide strategic, litigation-focused, non-direct services to public and private defense attorneys and their clients under the Indigent Court Cost Act (ICCA).