Question regarding criminal counsel

[JDeLude]

What is the name of your state? New Hampshire

My question is pretty simple. I am charged with a misdemeanor class b for disorderly conduct. I won't waste anyones time with details as to how I aquired the charge. When I went to court for my arraignment I was informed by the desk clerk in the downstairs portion of the courthouse that I was not allowed to have court appointed counsel because of my charge.

Am I not allowed to have a public defender because of the charge I've been given?

[Blue Meanie]

Originally Posted by JDeLude

What is the name of your state? New Hampshire

My question is pretty simple. I am charged with a misdemeanor class b for disorderly conduct. I won't waste anyones time with details as to how I aquired the charge. When I went to court for my arraignment I was informed by the desk clerk in the downstairs portion of the courthouse that I was not allowed to have court appointed counsel because of my charge.

Am I not allowed to have a public defender because of the charge I've been given?

I would guess it is because it is a misdemeanor...but that is a guess...I am sure Carl or one of the others will correct me if I am wrong.

[JDeLude]

Originally Posted by baystategirl

I would guess it is because it is a misdemeanor...but that is a guess...I am sure Carl or one of the others will correct me if I am wrong.

I was arrested at the same time as a friend of mine, same charge at the time of arrest. The only real difference is he has an extensive criminal record while I have none to speak of. Anyway, his class A stuck between the arrest and the arraignment, and he was given a public defender when he asked for one. I was standing behind him when he requested the paperwork, not more than a minute later the clerk informed me I couldn't have a lawyer.

I assume you're right, but I'm just concerned. The only thing better than having no criminal record, is keeping it that way.