When faced with the decision of choosing between a free public defender and a paid private criminal defense attorney, it is important to not think about cost. Instead, you must think about the well-being of your rights, your freedoms, your future, and your family. Regardless of how minor your offense may be, choosing a public defender is incredibly risky and strongly discouraged.

Continue reading to learn why private criminal defense is always worth it, and how you can afford to hire a lawyer to fight your criminal charges.

A Public Defender Might Eventually Get to Your Case. Or They Might Not.

Always Choose Private Defense When Facing Criminal Charges

It is vital to entrust your rights and freedoms in an experienced criminal defense lawyer who has the time and resources to devote to your case. The good news is that criminal defense representation for minor infractions is more affordable than you think. Making the choice to hire private counsel over free public defense is worth the cost because you will get better results. Public defenders are overloaded with cases, and cannot devote the amount of time and focus to each individual case like a private counselor can.

No Case is Too Minor for a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Whether caught shoplifting a pack of gum or trespassing onto private property, there is no offense too petty or minor for a private attorney. Penalties like jail time, community service, fines, suspended drivers’ licenses, revoked professional licenses, and more, may all be on the docket of maximum penalties for your particular charges. So, if you want the best chance at avoiding maximum penalties for your pending criminal charges, you must make the best choice for your future and hire private representation.

Most Important Reasons to Choose Private Counsel:

Private lawyers have the time, knowledge, and experience to know whether or not certain evidence should be suppressed or challenged.

Private lawyers understand the workings of a complicated legal system and have the time to navigate any obstacles or complexities.

Private lawyers know when it is best to accept a plea bargain or settlement.

What to Take Away From This Blog

In conclusion, the money a person may save by going with a public defender can cost them much more in the long run. The tradeoff of saving money versus a comfortable life is not worth it at all. A private lawyer will be by your side through your entire legal journey, working as an advocate for your rights and your freedoms. This is an investment worth the cost.

Are you facing criminal charges in Indianapolis, but afraid you cannot afford an attorney? Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free consultation with a seasoned Indianapolis Indiana criminal lawyer, today.

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Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514 — Schedule a Free Consultation Today!

Court-Appointed Attorneys

A public defender is a court-appointed attorney that is paid by the government to represent defendants that are incapable of affording private legal counsel. Generally, they are given to those facing jail time for misdemeanor or felony charges. Although they are fully-qualified lawyers, public defenders often carry a stigma implying otherwise. They have the equivalent training and licenses and extensive courtroom experience that private lawyers do. But this does not mean they should be a “first choice” for someone facing serious criminal charges.

Choosing a Public Defense Lawyer

After an arrest, a court hearing called an arraignment will be scheduled. This is a defendant’s initial hearing in which their criminal charges will be read to them by a judge, and then they will be asked to plead ‘guilty’ or ‘not guilty’ to their charges. For those with private counsel, their attorney will already be present. As for all others, the arraignment hearing is when a defendant will be given the opportunity to accept a public defender.

If a defendant replies yes to a public defender, one will be appointed to them for the duration of the arraignment only, or until they can prove they are indigent. Eligibility requirements for public defense varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Some courts may require defendants to provide fee estimates from multiple private law firms, along with proof of financial records, to prove they cannot pay for private representation. While other courts simply take a defendant’s word or allow them to choose regardless of how much they earn.

Why Private Lawyers are Best

Public defenders have a much heavier caseload compared to private lawyers. This means they do not have very little time to spend on each individual case. For this reason, it can be risky working with one. If you are facing criminal charges and possible jail time, you want to invest in an attorney who can dedicate 100 percent of their time and attention building a defense against your charges. They are the professionals who can afford to put time into protecting your rights and preserving your freedoms.

Questions About Your Indiana Criminal Case?

Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your Indiana criminal charges with a seasoned Indianapolis criminal defense attorney you can trust. We work around the clock to ensure your rights are protected and your freedoms are preserved. You can avoid the maximum penalties for your charges with our aggressive legal representation!

Schedule a Free Consultation Today!

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Why Private Criminal Defense is Always the Best Choice