Q: I need a PD for 1 DUI. Cannot afford a lawyer. Will I be able to obtain one ?
A:
Here is a great answer to that question that our local public defender's office has on their website...
"In most cases deputy public defenders are appointed by the court. If you are charged with a crime and cannot afford to hire an attorney, ask the court to appoint a public defender at your first appearance before a judge. You may be asked to submit a financial declaration to determine eligibility. If you have questions about whether you need a public defender or qualify for one, call any of the branch offices listed on this website. Generally, the person seeking our representation must be indigent. This means that they are without the resources to hire their own attorney.
In juvenile delinquency cases we represent the minor without regard to the indigency of the young person. In mental health cases we represent the subject of the detention or conservatorship application without regard to the resources of that individual, as required by statute."
A:
A PUBLIC DEFENDER IS APPOINTED BY THE COURT.
AS A RULE THEY WILL NOT TALK TO YOU UNTIL THE COURT ORDERS THEM TO REPRESENT YOU.
THEY WOULD HAVE TO DETERMINE IF YOU QUALIFY FROM A FINANCIAL POINT OF VIEW.
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