What to do if I was not read my rights when arrested and denied free legal counsel by the state so I had to represent myself in court?
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What to do if I was not read my rights when arrested and denied free legal counsel by the state so I had to represent myself in court?
This happened in another state. As far as I knew the charges were dropped. Now nearly 2 years later, I went to renew my license in my home state and it was denied; apparently it is under suspension but this is the first I have heard of it. I cannot work if I don’t get my license renewed and cannot afford an attorney. I have called everyone in both states but cannot get any help. I do not even know what charge is on my record.
Asked on February 4, 2013 under Criminal Law, New Hampshire
Answers:
MD, Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Start with the court. If you have the case number, call the court clerk and find out the disposition. You might be able to order a certified copy by email or phone to obtain it. Then, if you find out the charges were dropped and case dismissed, you need to find out if any subsequent actions occurred. If not, then you need to go to the department of motor vehicles and find out why your license was suspended. Then and only then will you be able to work backwards to get the right answer and see if any of this can be reversed without counsel. Otherwise, contact legal aid in the county in which you currently live and see if it can help find out what occurred and then see if counsel in the former state from legal aid can be involved to help.
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