Oregon's Shocking New Public Defense Chief Could Change Everything—Find Out How!

Governor Tina Kotek has officially appointed Ken Sanchagrin as the permanent director of the Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC), following his role as interim executive director since April 2025. His appointment is contingent upon Senate confirmation, but it signals a critical step forward for a state grappling with public defense challenges.

The OPDC plays a pivotal role in ensuring that every Oregonian charged with a crime has access to legal representation, a constitutional obligation that the state has struggled to meet for years. Under Sanchagrin’s leadership, data indicates a significant improvement: the number of individuals without legal representation has dropped by 32% as of December 2025. This translates to approximately 1,200 individuals who now have attorneys advocating on their behalf.

Sanchagrin's effective leadership has notably transformed Coos County, previously deemed a “crisis” area with over 100 individuals lacking legal representation. With his intervention, every person in the county now has access to an attorney, illustrating the tangible impact of his work.

“Ken stepped in last April at my request, and he is delivering on the expectations I set forth to address the unrepresented crisis and end the needless delay of justice for defendants and crime victims,”

Kotek remarked in a statement, emphasizing the urgency and importance of resolving public defense issues.

Sanchagrin's selection comes after Kotek dismissed the previous head of the OPDC last April amid ongoing concerns about the agency's effectiveness. The OPDC, which is responsible for contracting with both nonprofit public defenders and attorneys who take cases on an hourly basis, has undergone significant restructuring recently. It transitioned from the judicial branch to the executive branch, now operating under the direct oversight of the governor.

Following his initial appointment, Kotek tasked Sanchagrin with developing a comprehensive plan and timeline to end Oregon's unrepresented crisis. In his efforts, he has partnered with district attorneys from Coos, Jackson, Marion, and Multnomah counties to expedite the resolution of low-level charges such as property offenses. This collaboration is essential, as it not only addresses immediate legal needs but also fosters a more efficient judicial process.

Moreover, the OPDC has initiated a program that provides compensation to attorneys who take on additional cases when capacity allows. This innovative approach aims to alleviate the burden on public defenders and ensure more individuals receive the representation they deserve.

State Representative Paul Evans, a Democrat from Monmouth and a member of the OPDC, commented on Sanchagrin's performance, stating, “Ken is doing well in a tough situation. His continued leadership will provide critical stability as we pivot into the next phases of reform and improvement.”

As Oregon navigates these reforms, lawmakers are expected to propose more changes to the state's public defense system during the upcoming legislative session in February. The aim is to build on the progress made under Sanchagrin’s leadership and further enhance access to justice for all Oregonians.

Sanchagrin’s appointment underscores a commitment to resolving longstanding issues within the public defense system, and it raises hopes for a more equitable legal landscape in Oregon. The path ahead will require sustained effort and collaboration among lawmakers, attorneys, and advocacy groups to ensure that the right to legal representation is realized for every citizen.