Someone I know is in jail awaiting his trial and has signed a waiver of attorney because he wanted to defend himself. Once signing the waiver, can you tell them you've decided you need presentation?
2007-08-12 09:35:52 · 7 answers · asked by Angela F 5 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Yes - when he goes before the judge on the first day of his trial, he can say that he changed his mind, and ask for an attorney.
Most judges will be happy to appoint him an attorney because it means their courtroom runs more smoothly, and if convicted, his case isn't as likely to be overturned on appeal.
2007-08-12 09:44:38 · answer #1 · answered by CGIV76 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Once signing the waiver, he needs to wait for the judge to confirm that he is capable to represent himself. Signing the waiver alone is not enough, the judge must confirm this decision. If later he changes his mind and decides to have a representation, he can request the judge for one anytime and the public defender will be appointed to him.
2007-08-12 17:08:03 · answer #2 · answered by OC 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Absolutely! You can always get a public defender. The judge would probably ask him first time in the courtroom if he has changed his mind.
A good judge assigns one any way to assist a person.
A person who defends themselves has a fool for a client.
2007-08-12 16:45:25 · answer #3 · answered by Autumn S 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would think he could, but then he would have to hire his own attorney. (and the word is representation, not presentation). It's not advisable that a person represents themself in cases involving jail time.
2007-08-12 16:45:47 · answer #4 · answered by sophieb 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Generally, yes -- though the courts will not take kindly to any such attempt if it means disrupting the trial schedule.
If he wants to change his mind, he better do it well before the trial starts.
2007-08-12 16:44:18 · answer #5 · answered by coragryph 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
What is the charge if I may ask? Adela
2007-08-12 16:58:25 · answer #6 · answered by vegandela 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
YES YOU CAN SAY YOU HAVE CHANGED YOUR MIND ASK FOR A PUBLIC DEFENDER BUT IF HE'S NOT FIGHTING FOR YOU YOU CAN FIRE HIM AND FIND ONE THAT WILL DEFEND YOU..................................................
2007-08-12 16:43:26 · answer #7 · answered by kitty 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋