The Second Chair Program for the 18-b Program is a valuable initiative aimed at enhancing legal representation and providing additional support to panel attorneys working within the program. This program recognizes the importance of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and skills development in effectively representing individuals who rely on assigned counsel.

In the assigned counsel program, attorneys often face complex cases that require extensive legal expertise and courtroom experience. The Second Chair Program addresses these challenges by offering a structured framework for assigning a second attorney, commonly referred to as "second chair," to work alongside the lead attorney in a case.

The second chair attorney brings valuable insights, legal knowledge, and trial experience to the assigned counsel team. They collaborate with the lead attorney throughout the case, contributing to legal strategy development, evidence analysis, witness preparation, and courtroom advocacy. This collaboration ensures that the defendant receives comprehensive and well-rounded legal representation.

The Second Chair Program benefits panel attorneys in several ways. It provides an opportunity for mentorship and skills development, as the second chair attorney can act as a mentor or offer guidance based on their experience.  Additionally, the collaboration fosters a supportive environment where attorneys can learn from each other, exchange ideas, and strengthen their legal skills.

For clients, the Second Chair Program improves the quality of legal representation by adding depth and expertise to the defense team. The collaboration between the lead attorney and second chair enhances the ability to identify legal issues, craft persuasive arguments, and effectively navigate the complexities of the legal system.

Moreover, the program promotes a more balanced workload for panel attorneys. The presence of a second chair attorney allows for the distribution of responsibilities, reducing the burden on individual attorneys and facilitating more efficient case management.

The Second Chair Program emphasizes the importance of effective communication, cooperation, and coordination between the lead attorney and second chair.  It fosters a team-oriented approach, ensuring that both attorneys work harmoniously to provide the best possible defense for the defendant.

Click here to request a Second Chair.