Watch The Public Defender

The Public Defender is a classic legal drama television series from the 1950s, produced by Alpha Home Entertainment. The show ran for two seasons from 1954 to 1955, and starred Reed Hadley as the titular character who defends people accused of crimes they did not commit.

The show follows the life of Bart Matthews, a public defender who works tirelessly to ensure that justice is served in every case he takes on. Matthews is a strong-willed and passionate lawyer who takes on all kinds of cases, from petty crimes to major felonies. He is committed to helping those who cannot afford to pay for their legal defense and often comes up against challenges as he tries to uncover the truth and prove his clients innocent.

Assisting Matthews in his mission is his secretary, Peggy Maxwell, played by Natalie Wood. Peggy helps Matthews with his case preparations as well as providing emotional support when needed. The relationship between Matthews and Peggy is a close one, with Matthews often confiding in Peggy when he is feeling overburdened with the weight of the cases he takes on.

Hugh Beaumont played the role of Judge Mark Douglas, a stern and uncompromising man who presides over the court where Matthews argues his cases. Judge Douglas is a significant player in the show, often creating obstacles for Matthews as he attempts to defend his clients. Despite this, Matthews never gives up and pushes forward with his defense, determined to prove his clients

The Public Defender is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between January 1, 1954 and on Alpha Home Entertainment