DATE: October 6, 2026
TO: Board of Supervisors
SUBMITTED BY: Antoinette Taillac, Public Defender
SUBJECT: San Joaquin College of Law Federal Work-Study Agreement
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
TITLE
Approve and authorize the Chairman to execute a retroactive Agreement with the San Joaquin College of Law to provide the Public Defender’s Office access to and utilize law students from San Joaquin College of Law to provide case support, effective May 12, 2026 through May 12, 2027, not to exceed three consecutive years, which includes a one-year base contract and two optional one-year extensions, total not to exceed $30,000.
REPORT
There is no additional Net County Cost (NCC) associated with the recommended action. This recommended action will allow the Public Defender’s Office to continue the existing work study program, providing the Public Defender’s Office access to and utilizing law students from the San Joaquin College of Law (SJCL) who are interested in becoming defense attorneys. Seventy-five percent of the associated cost will be offset through the Federal Work-Study Program implemented by SJCL. This item is countywide.
ALTERNATIVE ACTION(S):
If the recommended action is not approved, the Public Defender’s Office will receive less case support provided by law students and will not be able to take advantage of the Federal Work-Study Program offered by SJCL.
RETROACTIVE AGREEMENT:
The Public Defender's Office is requesting retroactive approval of the agreement with SJCL to ensure continuity of services and educational opportunities provided through the partnership. Services commenced prior to the completion of the County's agreement approval process due to operational needs and scheduling requirements associated with the academic program.
The retroactive agreement will allow the County to formalize the existing relationship, ensure compliance with County contracting requirements, and provide compensation for services rendered during the period in which stude...
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