Public Defenders: Bad News?

[theyerb]

What is the name of your state? California

Hello all. So, I got arrested for driving while under the influence-- as every post on the forums states, "This was a BS call from the cop, my BAC was under .08, and now I'm stuck trying to defend myself." hahaha. Seriously though. I probably could afford an attorney, but I don't want to spend that much money. I was wondering what everyone's experience is with public defenders. Are they legit? I've heard from friends that they are bad news and don't care whether you win or lose. Would I qualify?-- I only earned about $8,000 last year (I'm a student) but I have about $10,000 in a brokerage college fund; do they look at that? Any advice is appreciated.

[sagito327]

Public Defenders get kind of a bad rap. The fact is a lot of these attorneys are volunteering their time from private practices and the like. Others, however, are bad. These are the ones that are rejected by mainstream employers and wait at the PD's office for files. Problem is, you never know which one you're going to get. Not only that, but DWI lawyers are normally pretty good at what they specialize in. Also, they will be able to invest more time and energy into your case BEFORE it even becomes a "case". Invest the $500 in a reputable DWI lawyer and you can probably get the charge reduced. You don't want that DWI (or DUI, or whatever).

[BigMistakeFl]

You don't get to choose whether to hire a lawyer or get a public defender. You fill out financial affadavits and have to prove that you are unable to hire your own attorney. If you have a job and own anything, you'll be turned down for the PD. Do yourself a favor and go hire a good DUI defense attorney.

[FlyingRon]

Where is Reed Hadley when we need him.