Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Yes. If you cannot afford an attorney, you need to ask the court to appoint the public defender to represent you and have the arraignment continued.

I'd say of course yes ... as Mr. Roach says, the choice is to hire one or apply for the PD if you can qualify for that option and you are happy with that option.

If you are asking the question there is not an 'of course' though in your mind ... or do you mean hire an attorney as opposed to using the PD?

Either way you need an attorney - whether hiring private counsel or applying for the PD, is up to you.

Good luck!

I agree with Mr. Roach and Ms Hofmeister. You are facing some very serious charges. The threat can be charged as a felony and serve as a strike in any future felony prosecution. If you are innocent all the more reason to get an attorney and fight the charges but even if at some point you are found to be guilty you will need an attorney. If you can hire one that is great. If not the court will appoint one.