Mobile Defense Program brings free legal help and second chances to Lucerne Valley

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Public Defender staff at outreach booth with water bottles under a San Bernardino County tent in Lucerne Valley. — *Mobile Defense Program offers free legal help and resources to Lucerne Valley residents on April 8.*

For many residents in San Bernardino County, getting to court isn’t easy. In a county that spans more than 20,000 square miles, some people face hours of travel just to handle a legal matter. For others, transportation or financial challenges can make it nearly impossible to access court services.

On Wednesday, April 8, the San Bernardino County Public Defender’s Office will bring its Mobile Defense Program to Lucerne Valley, offering free legal assistance and access to county services from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at The River’s Edge Ranch.

“Access to the court system should not depend on where someone lives,” said Supervising Deputy Public Defender Prisca So. “Through the Mobile Defense Program, we are able to bring services directly into communities and make the process more accessible for those who need it most.”

Through the program’s mobile unit, community members can step inside a Mobile Defense RV and connect directly with the court through virtual hearings. This allows eligible participants to address legal matters without traveling long distances.

The Mobile Defense Program launched in May 2024 with its first event in Landers, bringing court access directly to residents in some of the county’s most remote communities. Since then, the program has helped individuals resolve cases, clear records and connect with essential county services—reducing barriers to employment, housing and long-term stability.

Services available at the event include assistance with:

Clearing bench warrants
Modifying misdemeanor cases
Resolving outstanding fines
Re-enrolling in required court programs
Record clearing and expungement

For many, resolving these issues can be life-changing, opening the door to better job opportunities, stable housing and a fresh start.

“When people are able to resolve their cases, it can create real opportunities for stability and a fresh start,” said So. “Our goal is to help remove those barriers so individuals can move forward.”

In addition to legal services, the event will bring together multiple San Bernardino County departments and community partners to provide support beyond the courtroom. Attendees will have access to services such as healthcare, employment resources, social services, child support assistance and public benefits.

Participating county departments include Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, the Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk’s Office, the Behavioral Health Department, the Child Support Services Department, the Human Resources Department, and the Transitional Assistance Department—all working together to expand access to services for the community.

San Bernardino Superior Court Self-Help will also be on-site to assist with questions related to family law, child support, landlord-tenant issues, guardianship and small claims.

The event will be held at The River’s Edge Ranch, 33433 Haynes Road in Lucerne Valley. The ranch is a nonprofit recovery facility that has supported men overcoming substance abuse since 2007. Its program offers a holistic rehabilitation approach, integrating manual labor, animal-assisted therapy, faith and mentoring to empower men to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.

The event is open to the public. Pre-registration is required for Mobile Court services, and space is limited. For more information or to register, visit the Public Defender’s Office Eventbrite page or PD.SBCounty.gov.

Additional County Update News – March 26, 2026