Individuals who are charged with a crime have the legal right to work with an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one may be provided to you by the court. This person is a public defender. They typically are able to provide you with legal guidance and support, but there are limitations that you should consider.
Before you choose public defenders rather than a private attorney, you should understand the difference in your experience and the potential impact it could have on your case. A Garfield County criminal defense attorney from Troxell Law is here to help.
Public Defender Availability
Perhaps the most frustrating part of working with a public defender is that it can be hard to get hold of them and work with them. These people are professionals, but they have very full caseloads. In some areas, that may mean they have very limited time to meet with clients more than a quick call before a hearing or a short consultation.
When you have a lot on the line, you need to have an attorney that has the ability to stop and make time for you. You want an attorney that is going to be able to create a viable legal strategy and fight hard to help you get the best possible outcome. Time limitations make that hard for public defenders to do.
Choosing Someone You Like
When hiring a private attorney, you have the ability to choose anyone you wish, including someone with a strong reputation in a case like your own or someone you just feel more at ease with. You do not get the same support when you work with a public defender. One is appointed to you, and you have limited recourse if you do not like them.
You can ask for a new public defender. The process can be complicated, and the court may not approve of this on an ongoing basis. Instead, you may want to choose an attorney who is a better fit for you from the start.
Results: Which is Better?
It can be hard to say that your private attorney is going to get you a better result because there are many very effective public defenders out there who create remarkable results. Yet, you really do have to keep in mind what you are facing here. Look at these facts:
- How many cases is the public defender handling at one time?
- What amount of time do they really have to find evidence to support your case?
- If you are innocent, do you want to put all of your trust into an attorney who may not have the time to prove it?
Because so much relies on the results of this case, you should have the freedom to choose an attorney you feel comfortable with and want to represent you in a court of law. When possible, hire a private attorney so you remain in control over what happens to you throughout this legal process. It can make a big difference in the long term.