My son charged with harassment

[czaz21]

Son charged with harassment 2nd degree for getting into a fight with an 18 year-old, he is 20. The kid had some teeth knocked out they were all under-age and drinking. The judge says he needs an attorney. Do I have to pay for one since he has no job or is there a way around it?

 

[lawrat]

I am a law school graduate. What I offer is mere information, not to be construed as forming an attorney client relationship.

Check for your state and look under criminal procedure, criminal code and/or penal code to see at what level your state gives the defendant the right to a court appointed attorney if he/she is indigent.
https://law.freeadvice.com/resources/statecodes.htm

 

[Tracey]

He's an adult. You are not liable for his debts or legal fees. He should qualify for a public defender.

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This is not legal advice and you are not my client. Double check everything with your own attorney and your state's laws.

 

[czaz21]

I should have mentioned it's NY state and the court referred him to a law firm that needs to know how much I make in case he's under 21. Isn't it he who needs the lawyer or is he totally my responsibility until he's 21? I'm not trying to be a hardass but this is not the first time and I'm tired of paying for someone who won't help themself.