How a South Texas Court System Is Failing Poor Defendants

Fernando Padron, a U.S. citizen with no prior convictions, was held in a South Texas jail for nine months without court appearance or legal representation after being accused of theft. In the dysfunctional Maverick County court system, poor defendants facing minor charges often lack lawyers and endure lengthy jail stays without charges filed. Despite efforts to reform the system, Mr. Padron’s ordeal continues as he remains in jail for 20 months awaiting resolution of his case.

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