Rep Power: 453

I have an assault charge against me that I have been going to court for since Nov. of 2002, and at the beginning I got a court oppointed lawyer because I didnt have enough money. Every month that I went my lawyer either wouldnt show up or have my case reset. Last month he told me they wanted to offer me probation for 1 yr and 60 hours of community service and a 100 fine. I dont want it because I just got off of probation from a incident with the same girl and paid over $500 in fines and 100 hours of community service. Now last month I had the case set for trial, which will be on Dec. 16, 2003 because I believe I am not guilty. On friday I had a pre-trial conference in which the DA was going to offer me a fine only but my lawyer never showed up. When I go to trial tuesday, can I request the DA or Judge to give me a new laywer and have the case reset. I have never really discussed my case with this lawyer ever. This guy sucks.

 
Rep Power: 0

Im pretty sure that if you attend court on your next court date and intend on entering into a plea, you should be able to get a court appointed lawyer for that. Contact the courthouse to be sure.

As for "crappy lawyer", is there any other kind?

 
Rep Power: 0

Ive seen this happen before...good state appointed attorneys are far and few between. You can request a change for counsel and then the judge will have you explain why you need it...he may or may not grant it. You're gonna have to waive time limitations though (meaning it wont be a 'speedy' process).

NO

 
Rep Power: 453

what do you mean by it wont be a speedy process.

 
Rep Power: 0

You have the right to a speedy trial according to the amendments, meaning the courts only have so many days to finish your case....if you want another attorney its going to interfere with the time limits

 
Rep Power: 348

In other words you wont have to worry about it for a little bit longer

 
Rep Power: 0

um, I think you mean that the case will take a little longer than initially expected.