Tag Public Defender

Public defenders play an important role in criminal justice but they are often overworked and move on to other jobs. For this reason, defendants frequently have a hard time reaching their "assigned" public defender since the attorney may be gone or handling too many cases. DUI and other criminal charges can have serious impacts on driving privileges and jail time as well as impacts to employment. For these reasons, it is critical to get an attorney who can handle your case immediately and work hard to avoid some of the more devastating consequences of a criminal charge. A public defender can be great if you can actually work with a public defense lawyer right away on your defense. If not, you need to hire someone who can actually help you and protect your rights.

Criminal Defense, DUI, General

My Public Defender Won’t Return My Calls

We take a lot of calls from frustrated defendants who can’t make contact with their assigned lawyer. Not only are they frustrated, they are usually pretty scared about the months of delays without any contact. A legal issue will make…

Witt Law Group
October 7, 2023

When you are charged with a crime and can not afford an attorney, you may qualify for a public defender. You must qualify based on need and the court clerks will determine if you meet the financial qualifications. Even if you are assigned a public defender at Arraignment, you are never required to use a public defender. Public Defenders do not handle the DOL or Department of Licensing hearings that accompany a DUI criminal charge because the DOL hearing is a civil matter to suspend your license. If you want an attorney to handle both your DUI and your DOL hearing, you need to hire a private criminal defense attorney.

Criminal Defense, DUI, General, Uncategorized

Am I Required To Stay With My Public Defender?

No. In fact, if you are waiting to be assigned a public defender, you are wasting valuable time. The time between arrest and Arraignment is when we get the most important things done on a case. If you hire Ryan…

Witt Law Group
January 21, 2023

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