What’s the Difference Between a Public Defender and a Private Criminal Defense Attorney?
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Florida, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to hire a private attorney or use a court-appointed public defender. As a criminal defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale, I often get asked, “What’s the difference?” Here’s what you need to know.
Public Defenders: Free, but Overloaded
If you can’t afford a private attorney, the court will appoint a public defender to represent you. Public defenders are skilled attorneys, but they typically handle hundreds of cases at a time.
✅ Pros: No legal fees, experienced in handling criminal cases.
❌ Cons: Heavy caseloads, less time for personalized defense, harder to get in touch.
Because of their workload, you may not get frequent updates, and if you call with questions, it might take days or even weeks to hear back.
Private Criminal Defense Attorneys: Personalized Attention
A private criminal defense attorney, like myself, is someone you hire to fight for you. Private attorneys take on fewer cases, meaning they have more time and resources to build the strongest defense possible.
✅ Pros: More time for your case, frequent communication, strategic defense.
❌ Cons: Requires payment for legal services.
Which Option Is Right for You?
If you want a dedicated attorney who will aggressively fight for your rights, a private attorney is the way to go. While public defenders do their best, a private lawyer can often provide a more focused and strategic defense.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Fort Lauderdale, call Michael White, P.A. at 954-270-7696 today for a free consultation.
