Does a court appointed lawyer work as hard for you in court, or is it best to hire one?

Answer 1

In my community, court appointed attorneys are the same attorneys that you can pay for. They simply agree to take on a certain number of court appointed cases.

Most will work as hard for you as they will for pay - because they got into this industry because they BELIEVE in the system, and your right to a fair trial.

However, if you are capable of paying for an attorney do so. Because there are a few out there who don't give a crap, and are not that good, and take on these cases because they can't get other work.

Either way, be completely honest with your attorney. Contrary to the TV, most people can't just "get off on a technicality" every time -- those are the rare cases. IF they suggest a course of action, it is usually in your best interest to listen to what they have to say.

Answer 2

I'm taking a criminal justice class now and the rates of conviction and nonconviction are roughly identical. It was around 64% v. 62% with the court-appointed attorney with the slight edge for acquittal.

Answer 3

hire your own. yes it will cost you, but you'll be better off in the end. (i believe) most court appointed lawyers are just at the beginning of their carriers and so don't have all the knowledge you might need to defend yourself.. how to find a good lawyer ??????? ask around.

Answer 4

Let me put it this way - in our adversarial system, you get all the justice you can afford. Look at OJ Simpson. When he had money, he beat a murder rap. Now that he's broke, everyone is rolling over on him in a simple B&E case.

Answer 5

unless its an outside lawyer and not a public pretender, they wont do crap for you--- as they are not getting a penny