Q: I’m representing myself in a criminal case, how do I reschedule the court date to prepare?
I plead not guilty to trespassing, disorderly conduct, and assault of an officer. The prosecutor has the charges as misdemeanors and the officer is not pressing charges. I was told that I could not have a court opponented attorney but I could hire one as necessary. My police report states that I repeatedly stated “I did not assault anyone” and the evidence against me is body cam footage that I have not seen. 1) how do I request more time? 2) do you think I should hire counsel based on these facts? 3) if they won’t allow me a court appointed attorney, do you feel they won’t try to give jail time?
A: If you are facing jail time and cannot afford to hire private counsel, the court WILL appoint you a lawyer. The State needs to give you all the evidence they have against you, police reports, videos, photos, etc. so that you can decide whether you want to reach a non-trial disposition or go forward to trial.
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