American Samoa § 4.0320 - Public Defender
Full text of American Samoa American Samoa Code Annotated § 4.0320 — Public Defender, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4.0320. Public Defender
(a) The office of Public Defender is created as an independent agency of the executive branch of the government. (b) The Public Defender shall be appointed by the Governor of American Samoa and confirmed by the Legislature, for a term of 4 years and shall serve until his successor is appointed and qualified. He may be reappointed for 1 or more subsequent 4-year terms. Vacancies in the office shall be filled by the Governor for the unexpired term. The first Public Defender appointed pursuant to this section shall be appointed for a term commencing 1 January 1978. (c) The Public Defender shall be a qualified attorney who is a graduate of an accredited law school with at least 3 years of experience in criminal trial work, licensed to practice law in this territory, and shall be removed from office only for good cause by the Governor. (d) The Public Defender shall devote full time to the performance of his duties and shall not engage in the private practice of law. The compensation of the territorial Public Defender shall be at the same grade as that of the Deputy Attorney General and shall not be reduced during the term of his appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About American Samoa § 4.0320
What does American Samoa Code Annotated § 4.0320 cover?
Section 4.0320 ("Public Defender") is part of the American Samoa Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of American Samoa. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite American Samoa § 4.0320?
A common citation format is "American Samoa Code Annotated § 4.0320" (American Samoa). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of American Samoa law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the American Samoa official source linked on this page or consult a licensed American Samoa attorney.
How does American Samoa § 4.0320 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in American Samoa can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in American Samoa.