Q: How does an inmate obtain: 1. a court appointed lawyer (no Income) 2. Arrest report, evidence, etc
A friend was arrested last week, is still in custody. Court set for Tuesday, (8/30/2022). She was charged w/traffic violations that she's guilty of, and won't dispute. The other charges are:
1. tampering with physical evidence
2. possession of meth (1st offense)
That's where I'm hearing discrepancies between what the officers, the inmate, and the passenger said took place at time of arrest. Personally I'm inclined to believe the officers, but that's irrelevant. She needs a lawyer who will guide her in the right direction. A lawyer should also be able to access the arrest report and find out what evidence is going to be used to prove guilt. The stories are conflicting enough that knowing that information is crucial. Can a person request that information in order to prepare for their own court date w/out an attorney? If the inmate isn't lying, it poses a bigger problem, and the criminal charges will be disputed emphatically. I can provide any info pertaining to this case if needed.
A: She can ask for court appointed counsel at her first appearance or arraignment. Then her lawyer can ask for the discovery (evidence) after being appointed.
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