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: Existing as a Public Defender

How to defend the defenseless?

I've had more than my share in the last ten years. Clients without a defense. But the attitude that, "If they are going to charge me, they are going to spend the money for a trial." I get that they are entitled to a trial. I get it more than most people. That's why I do what I do. But how can you provide a defense when they don't give you a damn thing to work with??And the "trial tax." It's unfortunate, but true. I know my client, charged with two first degree misdemeanors, is going to get two years in the county jail if he is convicted. And I don't see how he won't be. I don't have a damn thing to work with.Jury picked and sworn. Today, I get a call that he is trying to hire a private attorney, for a case scheduled for trial. Tomorrow...continue to full post

Full post as published by Existing as a Public Defender on December 15, 2011 (boomark / email).