Q: Do you have to pay for a public defender in Louisiana
A: Sometimes. The average rate for most misdemeanors is probably around $1,500---$2,000 depending on the charge. True, if you call around you might be able to find an attorney who will charge less than $1,500--$2,000 depending on the circumstances, but there are also attorneys who will charge more. One is entitled to a public defender in criminal matters only if the Court (Judge) finds that the accused is indigent (or unable to completely pay for his legal defense). Sometimes the Court determines that the accused is indigent however also determines that the accused can contribute financially to his legal defense and will order the accused to pay an amount to the public defender-----in my experience, the amount the Court would order is between $50 and $250, and which amount is a bargain.
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