Is it good to go to trial with a public defender?
Asked by: Max Lehner | Last update: June 20, 2025Score: 4.3/5 (32 votes)
There are two big advantages to using a public defender (PD)—you will have someone on your side who knows the law, and it will cost you nothing. If this is your only option, using a public defender is better than having no lawyer at all or trying to represent yourself.
Are public defenders good at trial?
Public defenders are often more skilled in criminal trial work than other lawyers due to their extensive experience in the criminal justice system. That said, public defenders often carry very heavy caseloads that can interfere with their ability to devote time to in depth case investigation and preparation.
What are the disadvantages of a public defender?
Disadvantages Of A Public Defender
Public defenders often lack office equipment and the levels of research access that private attorneys have available. Public defenders also can rarely afford to hire investigators to collect evidence to support your case.
How often do public defenders win cases?
In both Federal and large State courts, conviction rates were the same for defendants represented by publicly financed and private attorneys. Approximately 9 in 10 Federal defen- dants and 3 in 4 State defendants in the 75 largest counties were found guilty, regardless of type of attorney.
Who benefits most from public defenders?
Public defenders represent individuals who are charged with crimes but are unable to hire a defense attorney. This means that public defenders often work to help disadvantaged members of society.
Public Defender VS Private Attorney | Pros and Cons
Why are lawyers better than public defenders?
A private lawyer will have a smaller caseload than a public defender. They will be able to devote more time to building a strong defense strategy for you. More resources. Private lawyers have staff that will help them in your case.
Should I go with a public defender or a lawyer of my choice?
Most public defenders have less experience – Even the most experienced public defenders often lack the same knowledge and skills that many private lawyers have. Since you cannot know who the court will appoint as your public defender, you might even get a lawyer who has never worked on a case before.
What percentage of people using a public defender plead guilty?
We know that, depending on which jurisdiction, anywhere from 60-90% of all criminal defendants need publicly funded attorneys. And then when it is time to come in front of a judge, 90-95% of those people will enter a guilty plea.
Can a public defender get you out of jail?
Public Defense is a Luxury Worth Taking Advantage Of
Either way, a public defender can do a lot for you, including get you out of jail. However, you must have already been appointed a public defender for this privilege, which would mean you have been arrested while already facing pending criminal charges.
Can a public defender get charges dropped?
However, your public defender can advocate for your interests by presenting evidence and arguments in court to challenge the charges against you. This may include filing motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if there are legal grounds to do so.
Why would a public defender be denied?
Defendants who cannot afford legal counsel only have the right to free legal counsel if the charge carries a risk of a jail or prison sentence. Thus, a defendant charged with a minor offense such as a traffic violation will probably not be appointed a public defender.
Should I take my case to trial?
The Strength of the Prosecution's Case Against You
If the evidence against you is overwhelming, it is likely best to consider negotiating a plea agreement to resolve the case. On the other hand, if the evidence against you is weak, it may be more advisable to go to trial.
Can I hire a lawyer if I have a public defender?
If you are facing charges and cannot afford a private attorney, the court may appoint a public defender. While public defenders provide legal representation, some defendants may still wish to hire a private attorney. In most cases, defendants with a public defender are still permitted to hire a private attorney.
How do you know if your case will be dismissed?
Some signs we look for are a lack of physical evidence, gaps in the chain of custody of evidence, contradictory eyewitness accounts, or witnesses who lack credibility. If the prosecution's case is built on a shaky foundation, they often realize a dismissal or plea deal is their best option.
How often do public defenders win a case?
According to a study by the U.S. Department of Justice, 76% of defendants with a private attorney were convicted, compared to 88% of defendants with a public defender.
Why do most people plead not guilty?
By maintaining a not guilty plea, you ensure that your right to a fair trial is preserved, and the burden of proof remains squarely on the prosecution. Additionally, pleading not guilty allows your defense attorney the necessary time and opportunity to build a robust defense.
Have public defenders ever won a case?
You can have a successful case with a public defender and even win, but your chances are better with a private attorney who has the time, resources, and experience to devote to your case.
What is an advantage of a public defender?
Advantage of Public Defenders
Public defenders often know the quirks and preferences of specific prosecutors and judges, and they can use this knowledge to better know how to move forward with a case.
How much do public defenders make compared to private lawyers?
The average entry-level salary for a prosecuting attorney is $51,100, for public defenders it is $50,400 compared with private defense lawyers whose starting salaries average $118, 660.
Can public defenders be trusted?
For the most part, you can trust a public defender to handle your case responsibly and competently because they are hardworking people that want what is best for their clients. But their ethics will not provide them with limitless time, and they will receive payment no matter what happens in your case.
Do public defenders work with prosecutors?
It is often the case that specific public defenders are assigned to the same courtrooms regularly dealing with the same judges and prosecutors.
What is the difference between a court-appointed attorney and a public defender?
Both are paid by the state or federal government, but court-appointed attorneys are paid by the hour, while public defenders are salaried employees. However, court-appointed attorneys are private lawyers appointed by the court on a need basis, while public defenders are county, state, or federal employees.