Sonoma County Government: Brian Morris Selected As Sonoma County Public Defender

Press release from the Sonoma County Government:

October 25, 2021

For Immediate Release CA

"Brian’s extensive litigation experience and passion for person-centered representation will continue a tradition of positive outcomes for Sonoma County residents who are unable to hire an attorney for financial reasons,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “He has a collaborative leadership style that will only enhance relationships among the county’s justice partners, and we’re happy to have him.”

The Sonoma County Public Defender has the mandated responsibility of defending any person who is charged in Superior Court and who is not financially able to hire an attorney. The Public Defender also represents individuals in probate and welfare proceedings. Types of cases handled by a County Public Defender include criminal cases upon request or by appointment of the court, contempt cases, appeals cases involving mental health guardianships and conservatorships, and juvenile cases.

“I’m looking forward to partnering with Sonoma County’s vibrant and diverse community and other county departments to help improve our clients’ lives,” said Morris. “It is an honor to join a staff that is well-respected for providing excellent service while carrying complex, high-volume caseloads.”

Morris served as a Marin County Deputy Public Defender for approximately 15 years prior to his appointment as Marin County Assistant Public Defender. He has also served as Deputy Public Defender for both Mendocino County and Sonoma County. He currently serves on the California Public Defender's Legislative Committee, the Marin County Juvenile Justice Realignment Committee, the Marin County Criminal Justice Behavioral Health Team, the Marin County Equity CORE Team, and is a member of the Marin County Bar Association. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Vermont, and Juris Doctorate from the University of San Francisco School of Law.

Morris is expected to begin his role on Dec. 1, 2021 with a base salary of $231,084. 

Contact Information

County Administrator's Office

County of Sonoma Accessibility Assistance Sonoma County COVID-19 Vaccine Information Contact us by Phone

• Phone: Work (707) 565-3040

County Administration Building

575 Administration Drive

Suite 104A

Santa Rosa, CA 95403 Google Maps™ Directions Sign Up for Press Release Updates Facebook Twitter

This press release was produced by the Sonoma County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.