Q: If the public defender did not show up for court for me is a public defender responsible
A: If the public defender misses your appearance than the court should be willing to continue the appearance to a future date. If the judge does not realize this than speak up for yourself and let him know that you are present and accountable, but your public defender is AWOL. They should allow you a continuance. If it is an arraignment, and they force you to enter a plea, than it is advisable to enter a not guilty plea in most circumstances and preserve your rights for when counsel is available.
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