The Oregon Public Defense Caseload forecast projects instances of new eligibility for public defense counsel. In addition, open caseloads have been added as of the April 2025 forecast. The forecast is delineated by several categories: adult vs. juvenile; thirteen case types (felony, misdemeanor, civil commitment, dependency, etc.); circuit vs. appellate; county. Monthly counts are available out to the 2029-31 biennium. The county level detail is further disaggregated for adult felony by Jessica’s Law, Murder, Measure 11, Major Felony and Minor Felony. Finally, historical lengths of eligibility episodes are available. The report and associated tables are scheduled to be issued twice a year, on April 15 and October 15.
Archived Forecast
While there is not a formal advisory committee yet, an informal advisory group comprised of staff from Office of Public Defense Services, the Judicial Department, the DAS Chief Financial Office, the Legislative Fiscal Office and other knowledgeable parties meets prior to the release of the forecast. This is a public meeting. The next meeting will occur sometime in March 2025.
September Advisory Meeting Materials
Meeting presentation