How do I obtain a lawyer if I cannot afford one?
At the arraignment, the judge will explain your right to a court-appointed attorney. You should indicate to the judge that you are financially unable to hire a lawyer, and you will be provided an application for court-appointed counsel. The judge will review your application form and determine your eligibility for a public defender according to the appropriate financial guidelines.

If you qualify, the judge will sign the order appointing your case to the public defender. You will go the clerk’s window for a copy with the attorney’s name, address, and telephone number. The court will notify the public defender of the appointment and it is your responsibility to contact the public defender. You must remain in contact with the public defender and be available for all meetings as requested by the lawyer.

Show All Answers

1. I have a case in collection, what do I do?
2. Who do I contact about compliance monitoring?
3. What if I have more than one ticket?
4. What should I wear and how should I act in court?
5. What is an arraignment?
6. What are my constitutional rights?
7. Should I talk to a lawyer before entering a plea?
8. How do I obtain a lawyer if I cannot afford one?
9. What happens if I plead guilty?
10. What happens if I plead not guilty?
11. How do I obtain a continuance?
12. What happens if I am sentenced to jail?
13. What must I do if I can't pay my entire fine today?
14. What happens if I fail to appear in court?
15. What if my mailing address has changed?