What is a Public Defender in Oklahoma And How Do I Get One?

[apss_share]
Probation Violation in Tulsa County

A public defender is a lawyer the court appoints to represent individuals who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. Public defenders play a crucial role in the criminal justice system by ensuring that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has access to legal representation.

Role of a Public Defender

Public defenders provide legal representation to defendants in criminal cases. This includes defending clients in court, negotiating plea deals, and providing legal advice throughout the judicial process. They ensure that their clients’ constitutional rights are protected. This includes the right to a fair trial, the right to remain silent, and the right to confront witnesses.

They work to build a strong defense to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients and represent their clients in court, present evidence and arguments, cross-examine witnesses, as well as make objections when necessary. This means that they are responsible for all aspects of the trial process.

Public defenders often negotiate plea bargains or a blind plea with prosecutors sometimes resulting in reduced charges or lighter sentences for their clients in exchange for a guilty plea. If a client is convicted, then public defenders advocate for fair and lenient sentencing, considering the nature of the offense.

Appointment of a Public Defender

To be eligible for a public defender, a defendant must demonstrate financial inability to afford private counsel. The court typically requires the defendant to provide information about their income, assets, and expenses. If the court finds that the defendant is eligible, the public defender’s office will assign an attorney.

Working with a Public Defender

The public defender will meet with the defendant to discuss the case, review the charges, and explain the legal process, providing an opportunity for the defendant to ask questions and provide any relevant information. Defendants should provide all necessary information and documents and stay in contact with their attorney throughout the case.

Conversations are confidential, so defendants should be honest and open to allow for effective representation. Defendants should actively participate in their defense, attend all scheduled court appearances, and follow their attorney’s advice.

Public defenders often handle many cases simultaneously, which can impact the amount of time they can dedicate to each client. While public defenders provide quality representation, defendants should have realistic expectations about the process and potential outcomes. Because of the heavy case load they carry people may consider hiring a private criminal defense attorney to represent them.

Tulsa Criminal Defense Lawyers

Public defenders ensure that individuals who cannot afford private attorneys still receive legal representation. Understanding the role of a public defender and what to expect when working with one can help defendants navigate the legal process. If you need help, contact the Tulsa criminal lawyers at Kania Law Office by calling us at (918)743-2233 or online.

Tulsa's Local Criminal Defense Lawyers

Law ScaleAre you looking for Tulsa attorneys who will fight aggressively for you? Our team of criminal defense attorneys have the experience needed in Oklahoma law to secure the outcome you deserve.

Call us today for a free consultation 918-743-2233 or contact us online.