I am looking for a pro bono criminal defense attorney to handle a VOP.

Almost all pro bono representation involves civil, not criminal representation. If he can meet the eligibility requirements, he can apply for the services of the Public Defender. If not, look for a lawyer who has experience in representing VOP cases, as there are sometimes issues that can be raised prior to the hearing to convince a judge to sentence a person with a drug problem to treatment rather then incarceration. Good luck.

DISCLAIMER While I do practice law in your State, this answer is provided solely for informational purposes only. If you call the firm, we would be privileged to try to answer your other questions. This answer does not constitute legal advice, create an attorney-client relationship, or constitute attorney advertising.

It is not unusual for persons who have significant drug problems to have lapses in their recovery and even to get a new criminal charge. If you are unable to afford a private attorney and your boyfriend is potentially looking at jail time then he should qualify for the public defender. Judges generally are responsive when there is a specific plan in place to show what steps are being taken to avoid future problems. Promises to not do it again generally fall on deaf ears.

This is my experience with Florida and Georgia cases. Consult with attorneys in your area to verify local practices and customs.

As stated before it is very difficult to find criminal defense attorneys that handle matters pro-bono, there are many organizations that do so however, and you should look into these. There is also assigned counsel, which generally handles these matters.

If you need further information feel free to contact us at 646-633-4563.