Longtime defense attorney appointed Merced County Public Defender

After more than a year of not having a permanent leader in an office that represents a majority of Merced County defendants in court proceedings, the Merced County Board of Supervisors has approved a new public defender.

Vincent Andrade, 52, was promoted as new Merced County public defender on Oct. 22.

The attorneys staffed with the public defender’s office represent indigent clients in court proceedings.

A 20-year veteran attorney in the Public Defender’s Office, Andrade said his many years of experience have prepared him to lead the office.

“I have good knowledge about the history and culture at this office,” Andrade said. “I have a strong commitment to lead.”

Andrade worked his way up from a deputy position to the chief deputy position before becoming the interim public defender after former Public Defender Dave Elgin abruptly retired last year.

He wants to focus on being responsible to taxpayers while improving department efficiency and taking advantage of technology.

That means improving upon the relatively new case management system, and possibly incorporating a department intranet to streamline communication between attorneys.

Additionally, Andrade said he wants to foster important connections and relationships with other county agencies like the District Attorney’s Office, Probation Department and the Sheriff’s Office.

Along with implementing changes to the office, Andrade said he’ll also continue handling cases, including arraignments and probation/parole violations.

Andrade’s annual salary in the public defender role is $189,092.

This story was originally published November 2, 2019 at 11:52 AM.