Michigan Passes Legislation Establishing a Statewide Youth Defense System

On July 24, 2026, the Governor of Michigan signed into law landmark legislation to ensure that all youth in the state have access to qualified youth defense counsel. This law gives the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission the authority to establish a statewide youth defense system, which will include youth defense standards, oversight, quality improvement, and support for youth defense counsel.    

Following the Gault Center’s assessment of access to and quality of youth defense counsel in Michigan in 2020, the Gault Center worked closely with advocates and leaders in Michigan to fulfill young people’s constitutional right to counsel by improving the state’s delivery of youth defense services. The Gault Center celebrates this tremendous win alongside Michigan leaders and advocates who fought relentlessly for this victory on behalf of all youth in the state.