Robust data capacity supports rural defense systems in improving indigent defense delivery, advocating for the appropriate resources, fostering collaboration with stakeholders, and responding more effectively to legal and policy changes. Yet, rural defense systems face unique challenges, including limited funding, the common use of a decentralized contract-based systems, a lack of technical staff, and resistance to data sharing. Drawing on experience providing expert assistance projects in three rural jurisdictions seeking to expand their data capacity and interviews with eight organizations that have successfully built data systems, this guide offers recommendations for building sustainable data systems that considers the unique challenges facing rural jurisdictions.