Q: Do i need a lawyer everytime iam in front of the judge
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A: The quick answer is no - depending on the case the judge will always give you an opportunity to locate and retain a lawyer or to apply for a public defender (free court appointed lawyer) if you qualify. Colorado judges are well known for their compassion and understanding and their patience, especially in these difficult times, to find appropriate legal representation. Best HMS
Sean P. Harrell agrees with this answer
A: Given that you are posting this with a "criminal law" tag, the answer is yes. You are entitled to an attorney when facing jail time on criminal charges - either appointed or retained privately. You can certainly appear "pro se" (i.e. on your own behalf) but it's frowned upon and can't happen without the Court going through a litany of legal questions with you first. If you're facing criminal allegations, contact a lawyer asap and don't appear in court without one.
A:
I agree with my esteemed colleague that you do not always need a lawyer, and most judges will give you an opportunity or even multiple opportunities to obtain counsel or apply to the public defenders office for representation. As a general rule, it is best to obtain counsel at the beginning of a case or once you learn you are under investigation for criminal allegations. Do not forego your right to legal representation if at all possible.
Any criminal case, big or small, can impact your life for years to come. You cannot take back ill advised comments once made before a judge or to a prosecutor. The prosecutors use laptops in most jurisdictions in court. They will take notes on a defendant’s behavior or comments during court. I have had prosecutors recite to me comments they noted made by a client prior to obtaining legal counsel.
Take care. Sean Harrell
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