The Pre-Trial Division provides indispensable representation between arrest and preliminary hearing to connect attorneys and clients as early as possible, begin vital case preparation and reduce costs associated with pre-trial incarceration. Attorneys in this specialized unit intervene promptly in the process by meeting with incarcerated clients shortly after arrest to begin critical case analysis, investigation, mitigation, and to evaluate the specific needs of our clients. Assistant Public Defenders review arrest and charging documents and, where appropriate, ask prosecutors and police officers to drop or reduce certain charges, or modify bail. Such early intervention also helps to identify clients with medical, substance abuse, and/or mental health needs who require immediate attention.