The state indigent defense board has named its first chief defender, longtime Minnehaha County public defender Chris Miles.
Indigent defense refers to the representation of defendants unable to afford legal services.
The board was created during the 2024 legislative session to provide better and more efficient indigent defense options statewide.
“I am deeply honored to be appointed as the chief defender for South Dakota’s Office of Indigent Legal Services,” Miles said. “The commission has recognized the significant challenges in ensuring quality legal representation for those who are unable to access or afford it."
Miles said his initial goals include establishing appeal protocol, hiring attorneys and support positions, and assessing the burden of cases falling on county governments.