Q: can a judge tell you that if you dont have an attorney set by such and such date that you have to represent yourself?
Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
- (702) 463-4900
- View Profile
- Answered
A:
In criminal cases, individuals have the right to legal representation, whether it's through a privately hired attorney or a court-appointed attorney if they can't afford one. Now, the timing and specifics can vary, but generally, a judge will encourage you to have legal representation to ensure a fair and balanced trial.
However, it's important to note that judges have discretion in determining whether to proceed with a trial in the absence of legal representation. While they may strongly encourage you to have an attorney, they typically can't force you to represent yourself.
1 user found this answer helpful
A: North Carolina judges often say this to defendants who have previously delayed proceedings based on the fact that they haven't yet hired an attorney to represent them. This is really just a way of saying that the trial is scheduled to move forward on the next court date, regardless of whether or not the defendant has an attorney by that date.
1 user found this answer helpful
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
