Can I get a public defender for a drunk driving charge?

Yes, you can get a public defender for a DUI charge among other criminal offenses. The type of attorney you obtain is often based on financial means and ability as the court will want to know if you are currently employed and what your income is. If your income is too high, you may be disqualified to have a public defender appointed and to represent you. However, it is typically smarter to hire an experienced DUI attorney if you have the means.

Some of the disadvantages of having a public defender represent you is the fact that the public defender represents many indigent defendants, so that you likely will be one of many defendants that the public defender represents. The time that they spend on your case will be limited as well as the time you actually get to speak to your public defender and explain the facts and circumstances of the case.

What does this mean? Well the Public Defenders’ Office operates by volume as they have a significant high case load to handle and each of their attorney’s times will be limited in the handling of each of their cases which could also raise the issue of having your case competently and properly handled.

Public Defenders are not always free and there may be a charge imposed on you for utilizing the public defenders office and their services.

In contrast, hiring a private law firm such as the San Bernardino DUI attorneys at Wallin & Klarich will make a significant difference. The attorneys at Wallin & Klarich will ensure that your case is handled competently and zealously, maintaining a high level of professionalism and providing the time necessary to review your case and discuss all levels of your case and the facts and details surrounding the offense charged.

If you or someone you love has been accused of a crime in California, contact the experienced San Bernardino criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich today at (877) 4-NO-JAIL or (877) 466-5245 for a consultation of your case. We will be there when you call.