An immigrant from Cuba, Carlos Martinez has made indigent defense his life’s work. He was elected Public Defender of Miami-Dade County in 2008 and was re-elected without opposition in 2012 and 2016. The first Cuban-American public defender in the United States, Martinez has launched multiple initiatives to help returning citizens obtain employment, educate young people about the consequences of illegal behavior, and engage the faith community in promoting social justice and improving public safety.
Press Releases
As Women’s Share of Arrests Doubles, National Commission Calls for Tailored Justice Responses
Led by former AG Loretta Lynch, and advised by Oklahoma First Lady Sarah Stitt, CCJ panel releases strategic plan to prevent crime, strengthen families, and cut costs
