If you are arrested for a crime, you have the constitutional right to a criminal defense lawyer. If you can’t afford one, a public defender should be appointed to you. But will a public defender be able to provide you with adequate legal advocacy?
Here’s what to know about the difference between hiring a public defender and working with a private attorney and who you can call for help if you’re facing criminal charges.
You Can Choose The Lawyer You Want
If you hire a private lawyer, you can decide which attorney you want to represent you. With public defenders, however, you don’t have a choice in which lawyer takes your case. Cases are usually assigned to a team of public defenders based on which attorney has room in their caseload.
A Public Defender Is Usually Busier Than A Private Attorney
Public defenders usually have extremely large caseloads and very little time to dedicate to each individual case. This often makes it difficult to get in touch with a public defender when you need to. As a result, your questions may go unanswered and you may have a harder time understanding what’s going on or what you should do next.
A private attorney generally has a lower caseload by choice, so they have more bandwidth for each of their clients.
A Private Lawyer Is Less Likely To Pressure You To Take A Plea Deal
Experienced criminal defense attorneys are comfortable going to court and advocating for their clients in front of a jury. A less experienced lawyer may pressure you to take a plea deal that isn’t in your best interests if they’re nervous about presenting a defense.
Arrested For A Crime? Get Qualified Legal Help In Okaloosa County Today
If you were arrested for a criminal offense, you need high quality legal advocacy on your side as soon as possible. Your rights and future are on the line and it’s crucial to protect them as you go through the criminal justice system. Contact T. Martin Knopes today for a consultation to discuss your case with an Okaloosa County criminal defense lawyer at 850-683-0700.