How do I defend myself when I can't afford a lawyer

[cat5164]

I am writing on behalf of a friend in MI in need of a lawyer to defend him and has no money.. He was on probation for a year and he tried to call his p/o 2 different times because he could not make his appointment with her. He called 2 different offices and got served with papers for failure to appear.. What can he do?? He needs a lawyer and can't afford one.. He has worked the same job for the last year and a half and has not been in any trouble whatever. Can u help us?? I am trying to get this man published, I need him free of this mess...

 

[calatty]

If he really cannot afford a lawyer, then the court will appoint one for him. But if as you say he has been working for a year and a half, he will probably be considered able to afford a lawyer.

 

[buddy2bear]

Your friend will have to contact the State's Public Defender's office. He/she will probably have to go to the office and fill out paperwork requesting that they represent him/her. If he/she meets the low income requirement, then the Public Defender will assign an attorney. It is not adviseable to go into court without an attorney and tell the judge that you can't afford one. Judges do not want to see you there with an excuse as to why you don't have an attorney -- it screws up their court calendar and can put them in a bad mood -- which is one thing you don't want to do.

If your friend does not meet the income requirements to be represented by a public defender, then call your local bar association and ask if they have a list of pro bono or low fee attorneys.

 

[wildthing]

If you check the constitution you will see that everyone has the right to addiquate legal representation. If your friend pushes the issue the court must provide him with a attorney. Be warnned though, many court will impose pauper legal fees.