What is the Difference Between a Private Criminal Defense Attorney and a Public Defender? 

 Posted on March 30, 2023 in Criminal Defense

When facing criminal charges, the decision to hire a private criminal defense attorney or rely on a public defender is critical. While public defenders are appointed by the court to represent individuals who cannot afford an attorney, private criminal defense attorneys are hired by the defendant or their family. Today, we will discuss the essential differences between private criminal defense attorneys and public defenders. Remember, if you have been charged with a crime, it is in your best interest to contact a private criminal defense attorney to guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected and that adequate resources can be devoted to fighting the charges against you.

Please understand that the purpose of this blog is not to belittle public defenders in any way. On the contrary, this blog aims to lay out the differences between private attorneys and public defenders in a respectful and informational manner. 

Most Significant Differences Between Private Criminal Defense Attorneys and Public Defenders

One of the most significant differences between public defenders and criminal defense attorneys is the time and resources they have to invest in a case. Public defenders often handle a large caseload, leaving little time for each case. In contrast, private criminal defense attorneys have the knowledge, motivation, and time to provide a more focused and personalized approach to each case. Regarding resources, private attorneys often have access to a network of professionals, including investigators and professional witnesses, who can provide valuable insights and support throughout the case. Additionally, private criminal defense attorneys have the financial resources to invest in the latest technology and equipment to build a stronger case.

Another critical difference between public defenders and private criminal defense attorneys is their level of communication and availability. Public defenders often have limited time to communicate with their clients due to their heavy workload, which can leave clients feeling neglected and unsupported. On the other hand, it is not entirely unusual for criminal defense attorneys to be available around the clock in some cases and are committed to keeping their clients informed through the legal process. 

Contact a Collin County Criminal Defense Attorney

 If you or a loved one were arrested for a criminal offense such as drunk driving, assault, theft, or drug possession, our skilled team can help. Contact the experienced Plano criminal defense lawyers with Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C. for legal representation, advice, and support. We have secured more than 500 trial victories in DWI cases alone. Call 469-333-3333 for a free consultation.

Source: https://scholarworks.merrimack.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1047&context=honors_capstones