Public Defenders vs. Private Criminal Defense Attorneys

As someone who is facing criminal charges, it is important to understand your legal options. One of the biggest decisions you must make is hiring a private criminal defense attorney or using a public defender. While both options have pros and cons, it is important to understand the differences between them before making your choice.

Here are some key factors to consider when deciding between a public defender and a private criminal defense attorney:

1. Cost

The cost is one of the biggest differences between a public defender and a private criminal defense attorney. The government provides public defenders and are free of charge to those who cannot afford an attorney. Private criminal defense attorneys, on the other hand, charge a fee for their services. While this may seem like a disadvantage for those on a tight budget, it is important to remember that private attorneys often have more time and resources to devote to your case.

2. Experience

Public defenders are often overworked and may not have as much experience as private criminal defense attorneys. Private attorneys have more time to devote to your case.

3. Personal Attention

Private criminal defense attorneys can often provide more personal attention to their clients than public defenders. They can take the time to get to know their clients and their case, which can be beneficial in the long run.

4. Resources

Private criminal defense attorneys often have access to more resources than public defenders. They may have a team of investigators, expert witnesses, and other resources that can be used to build a strong defense.

5. Reputation

Private criminal defense attorneys often have a reputation you can find out about unlike a public defender. This can benefit the courtroom, as judges and prosecutors may take a private attorney more seriously than a public defender.

So, which one should you choose? Ultimately, the decision is up to you. A public defender may be your only option if you cannot afford a private criminal defense attorney. However, it may be worth the investment if you have the means to hire a private attorney. A private attorney can provide more personal attention, have more resources, and may better understand the law and the legal system.

We Want to Help

At Harwell Legal Counsel LLC, we understand the importance of having a strong defense team on your side. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to providing our clients with the personal attention and resources they need to build a strong defense.

Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation with our defense attorneys by calling (317) 401-8715 to learn how we can help you navigate this challenging time.