What Are the Biggest Differences Between a Private Attorney and Public Defender?

When someone is arrested in Dallas they will usually want some form of defense to help them avoid a permanent charge on their record. Many people know that they have the right to an attorney and can be appointed one should they need one. 

While an appointed attorney may sound like a great option for an offender, there are some big differences between a private attorney and public defender that are worth noting. 

How They Are Appointed

The first difference between the two is how they are appointed. Not every offender has the option of simply receiving free defense. If a person is found indigent, or is unable to afford basic necessities, they qualify for free counsel.

However, anyone who can afford an attorney and wants representation will have to hire their own defense for an impending court hearing.

Private Attorneys Are Invested in Your Case

When you hire a personal criminal defense lawyer, you are hiring someone who works for you! They are invested in helping you come out looking good in your case and will often have experience with your issue and already have a game plan.

Public defenders, on the other hand, are assigned all of their cases, whether they have the experience or not. Their investment isn’t in you, only to fulfill their obligations. 

Public Defenders Are Eager to Skip a Trial

When you meet with a public defender, their interest is all about in the courts. Most courts would prefer that a case is resolved before it ever even reaches the courtroom. So, with a public defender, you can expect the defense that you pay for. 

Although they will provide defense if there is defense available, they will often encourage offenders to admit guilt or resolve the case in other ways before it reaches a trial. 

You can Easily Make Time with a Private Attorney

Public defenders are often overworked. So much in fact, that most interactions with a public defender are to review charges and discuss what could happen if you are charged or convicted in your crime. If you have any concerns about your case, it’s best to lay everything out on the table during your initial meeting because after that, it’s going to be difficult to stay in touch with your free legal counsel.

If you can afford private defense, you have someone who is always available to answer your questions and coordinate your business on the outside while you’re locked up. Private attorneys may end up costing you a fair amount of money, but at the end of the day, they will help you navigate the legal process, not just push you through the machine.

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