What do I do if I was denied representation by a public defender but truly cannot afford to hire an attorney?
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What do I do if I was denied representation by a public defender but truly cannot afford to hire an attorney?
Asked on July 1, 2013 under Criminal Law, Texas
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
In a situation such as yours, there are several alternatives that you could try and pursue. First, see if there is a law school located in the area of where you were arrested. Many times they run legal clinics that handle just these type of cases. Additionally, you can contact the state or local county bar association. They typically have a list of attorneys who hand cases "pro bono" (i.e. for free) or for low cost depending on the defendant's income.
Tricia Dwyer / Tricia Dwyer Esq & Associates PLLC
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Hello. You should at minimum confer privately with an attorney licensed to practice law in the involved state. You should seek legal assistance immediately. Some attorneys are available seven days for emergency legal needs. Many attorneys will confer initially at no charge. Then, if legal work is performed, some attorneys will provide a reduced fee for financial hardship. Some attorneys may also assist you in limited scope manner to conserve legal costs. All the best.
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