Dealing with criminal charges can be extremely stressful and terrifying, and you need a good lawyer in such situations. But when choosing between a public defender and a private criminal defense attorney, many people get confused about what kind of legal representation they need. Both have pros and cons, and it's essential to know the differences and advantages they can offer. In this blog, we'll go over the main distinctions to help you make an informed decision that will best suit your needs.
What Is The Difference Between Public Defenders and Private Criminal Defense Attorneys
Public Defenders
Public defenders are lawyers appointed to represent individuals who cannot afford a private attorney. They are usually part of a public defender's office or a legal aid organization. While they have the same legal qualifications as private criminal defense attorneys, the differences lie in the type of cases they handle, the number of cases they work on, and their limited scope of expertise on specific subjects.
Public defenders are usually overworked, understaffed, and have many other cases to handle simultaneously. Unlike private defense attorneys, they do not have the luxury of choosing or managing their cases, and they are often on tight deadlines to respond to inquiries. This means they may not be able to dedicate as much time to your case and may need more preparation than you would like them to be.
Private Criminal Defense Attorneys
On the other hand, private criminal defense attorneys work on a case-by-case basis, and they are usually more invested in each case. They also have a much more specialized knowledge of specific areas of criminal law and practice than public defenders. Private criminal defense attorneys are often more available to their clients than public defenders as private attorneys work directly for their clients, which means they offer a higher level of personalized attention to their clients.
Paying for a private criminal defense attorney can be expensive. Still, private criminal defense attorneys do have more bargaining power, especially if going to trial, and are better equipped to negotiate deals with the prosecution to reach a plea bargain agreement that benefits you personally rather than the state in general.
Contact Our Attorneys at Sandground, West, Silek, Raminpour & Wright, PLC
Choosing between a public defender and a private criminal defense attorney is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Each option has its own advantages and limitations, and understanding these factors is essential in making an informed choice. At Sandground, West, Silek, Raminpour & Wright, PLC, we understand the complexities of criminal defense and the importance of personalized attention. Our team of experienced attorneys specializes in criminal law and is dedicated to providing the highest level of service to our clients. Contact our firm today at (703) 810-3791.