National Public Defender Day, also known as National Public Defense Day, is observed in the United States every March 18. This day honors lawyers who represent criminal defendants unable to afford legal counsel. The date commemorates the Supreme Court decision in Gideon v. Wainwright, which established the right to free legal counsel for indigent defendants in both federal and state courts. The observance highlights the importance of public defenders, who work for government-funded agencies to provide legal representation. The origins of this day trace back to 2016, recognizing the landmark ruling that expanded the rights of defendants. Public defenders are full-time attorneys employed by federal or state governments, and their work is crucial in ensuring fair legal representation for those in need.