What will happen if I don't have a lawyer when I go to court?
6 attorney answers
If you go to court and request a court appointed attorney, be prepared to prove indigency. Proof of unemployment or other government assistance will be extremely helpful. If you don't qualify, the case will be reset to give you time to get someone hired.
Macy Jaggers's answer to a legal question on Avvo does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please consult an attorney who practices criminal law in your jurisdiction for the most accurate legal advice.
You can apply for a court appointed lawyer. If you qualify, then the Court will pick an attorney for you. You might get a great one, or you might not.
Option B is you can interview attorneys. You can find one you trust and who will work with you on a payment plan.
This statement is intended for general information and does not form an attorney/client relationship.
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If your case is in Tarrant County, you went to your initial appearance in the Auxiliary Courtroom and spoke with Judge King. When you go to your regular, criminal court, you will be asked about your attorney. If you believe that you qualify for an appointed attorney, they will let you apply then. If you don't, or want to hire your own attorney, the judge will give you a short amount of time to hire one.
We have plenty of good lawyer in Tarrant County who would be happy to assist you.
Judge will ask you again what you want to do about having counsel. Ultimately, you could be forced to proceed without an attorney if you dont make a choice. You should be able to ask about plea offers as well at your next court date. If youre ok with the deal then you can act on your own. But Id suggest some legal assistance to help you out
If you appear before a judge without a lawyer, and you were already advised to your right to counsel, a Judge could determine that you waived your right to an attorney and try you without counsel. On the other hand, a judge could give you a postponement to get an attorney. Why would you want to risk it though?
Even on COPS they say If you cannot AFFORD one a lawyer will be appointed. Can you afford one to look after you or do you want to roll the dice?
I can afford one ad long as they take payments, I don't want to roll the dice.
There are PLENTY out there. Get a GOOD one that will help you on payments. Some take CCards to help. Use the find a lawyer feature above to get free consults. Interview them like a job.
Can I go without a lawyer, and tell the judge that I am obtaining one. Or do I have to have one going in?
What do you mean smart answer? Is that in relation to telling the judge that I am obtaining a lawyer? Can I do that? Can I go to court and just tell the judge that I am in the process obtaining a lawyer?
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Thank you Mrs. Jagger. Please call me at 4696489083. Your advice was very helpful. I need advice and you are in my area. I know I need a lawyer and you are the lawyer I want. Can you please call me so we can talk.